Two people suppress HIV after single engineered immune-cell infusion
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 11
Two people suppress HIV after single engineered immune-cell infusion
10 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 11
Researchers said one participant has maintained undetectable virus levels for nearly two years, with findings due to be presented at a gene therapy conference in Boston.
The treatment adapts a cancer-cell engineering approach to make patients’ immune cells recognise and attack HIV, offering early proof of concept for long-term control after one infusion.
Scientists cautioned the therapy remains years or decades from wide availability, but outside experts called the results a striking milestone and a possible path toward lifelong relief from HIV.
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Long-Term HIV Remission Achieved with One Immune Cell Infusion: Science, Challenges, and the Path Forward
Overview
On May 11, 2026, The New York Times reported a major breakthrough in HIV treatment: a single infusion of engineered immune cells was able to suppress the virus for years. In this pioneering study led by Dr. Steve Deeks at UCSF, two individuals achieved HIV suppression after just one treatment, with one participant maintaining undetectable virus levels for nearly two years. This result serves as a crucial proof of concept, showing that long-term HIV remission without daily antiretroviral therapy is possible. Such an advance could greatly improve the lives of millions living with HIV.