Cancer breakthrough could fight HIV

Melbourne scientists who have developed a potential treatment for cancer say it may also benefit people suffering from viral infections such as HIV and herpes.

Melbourne scientists who have developed a potential treatment for cancer say it may also benefit people suffering from viral infections such as HIV and herpes.Scientists at Melbourne’s Monash University have had outstanding results from trials which boost the immune system of people suffering from cancer.They are using a drug that is already on the market to rejuvinate the thymus which produces T-cells.T-cells fight disease in the body.Acting Victorian Premier John Thwaites says six major hospitals in the UK and the United States will trial the treatment.Peter Hansen from Norwood Abbey, which has funded the research, says there are also broader implications.”Another group of hospitals involved in HIV-AIDS studies have also reached an arrangement with us whereby we’ll be commencing a significant AIDS trial,” he said.(Source: ABC, Tuesday, June 24, 2003. 12:15pm (AEST))