Scientists say they have successfully eliminated HIV from infected cells, using Nobel Prize-winning Crispr gene-editing technology, BBC News reports.
Working like scissors, but at the molecular level, it cuts DNA so "bad" bits can be removed or inactivated.
The hope is to ultimately be able to rid the body entirely of the virus, although much more work is needed to check it would be safe and effective.
Existing HIV medicines can stop the virus but not eliminate it.
The University of Amsterdam team, presenting a synopsis, or abstract, of their early findings at a medical conference this week, say their work remains merely "proof of concept" and will not become a cure for HIV any time soon. (source: BBC News). "There will be much more development needed before this could have an impact on those with HIV."
Other scientists are also trying to use CRISPR against HIV.
And Excision BioTherapeutics says after 48 weeks, three volunteers with HIV have no serious side effects. (source: BBC News)
Off-target effects of the treatment, with possible long-term side effects, remain though a concern.
It therefore seems likely that many years will pass before any such Crispr-based therapy becomes routine - even assuming that it can be shown to be effective. (source: BBC News)
HIV infects and attacks immune-system cells, using their machinery to make copies of itself. (source: BBC News)