Test for HIV immunity released

Press Release 22nd August 2006
Test for HIV immunity released.

It seems some humans are resistant to infection by HIV – and it’s in their genes. Delta32 Gene Testing Labs has just announced the release of a commercially available test for the CCR5 delta 32 gene mutation. This gene confers resistance to infection by HIV in humans. Around 10-20% of the caucasian general population and lower percentages of other groups have 1 copy of this gene. Research studies have shown that whilst one copy of the gene does not provide a barrier to infection, it can slow the progression of latent HIV infection to AIDS. Conversely, 2 copies can render an individual highly resistant to infection by the majority of strains of HIV. Although only 1-3% of the caucasion general population have 2 copies of the delta32 gene mutation, as high as 20-30% of groups at high risk of HIV infection have 2 copies. Very few individuals with 2 copies of the gene have ever been recorded as being infected by the virus. Whilst other human genes can yield resistance to HIV, the delta32 gene mutation is one of the better characterised examples. Delta32 Gene Labs is offering the test to consumers for US$160. DNA samples are taken by the customers via a cheek swab and sent through the mail. The company states that it provides the service for the information of customers only, it is not considered as a diagnostic. Irrespective of the genetic status of individuals, the company strongly encourages the use of safe sex practices. Any decisions taken as a result of the test should be dicussed with a physician or genetic counsellor beforehand.