New anti-HIV drug from algae

Brazilian scientists have developed a new anti-HIV drug in the form of a gel extracted from an algae found on the coast of Brazil.

According to immune researcher Luiz Castello Branco, project drug research and production coordinator, the early stage test results show that the drug is able to prevent sexually transmitted HIV to 95%.

Studies conducted in Africa also show that the drug is 30% effective, which could help reduce about 40% of HIV / AIDS cases.

Branco said the second phase of the trial will be conducted in mice and living cells from the cervix in February 2007. If successful, human trials will be performed in the next few months."We are sure the final product will be effective over 50% , " Branco said. According to Folha de Sao Paulo, the drug can be marketed within 7 years.

(Photo: TTO)

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