Previous studies suggest that infection with genital herpes (herpes simplex virus-2 or HSV-2) can increase the risk for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection even after the skin lesions have healed. Some studies found that treatment of genital herpes with the drug acyclovir does not lower this risk. Now new research examines the HSV-2 immune cells that are conducive to HIV infection even after they've been treated with the drug acyclovir.
The study, published in Nature Medicine, examined tthe association of HSV-2 infection with HIV aquisition. Researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, conducted bipsies of genital skin tissue from HIV-negative patients infected with HSV-2. Biopsies were also obtained from unaffected genital skin and when herpes lesions reappeared and treated with oral acyclovir. Using these biopsies, the researchers cultured tissues from HSV-2 lesions and unaffected genital lesions.
Researchers found that CD4 and CD8 T immune cells and dendritic cells (DCs) remain at the sites of healed genital HSV-2 lesions at greater concentrations that in unaffected genital skin. These cells are used for HIV replication. The cultured tissues revealed that HIV replicates more quickly from the HSV-2 lesions.
"The persistence and enrichment of HIV receptor-positive inflammatory cells in the genitalia help explain the inability of anti-HSV-2 therapy to reduce HIV acquisition," the study authors conclude.
Herdox Relieves HSV Symptoms
There is no cure for genital herpes but a natural supplement like Progressive Health's Herdox can help relieve HSV symptoms, reduce HSV outbreaks and promote immunity. Herdox provides a potent blend of clinically proven inutrients including lysine, lemon balm, olive leaf extract, propolis, monolaurin, lactoferrin, vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc and selenium.
The amino acid lysine and the herb lemon balm (melissa officianalis) are well-known anti-herpes nutrients. Olive leaf extract, propolis, garlic, monolaurin and lactoferrin are potent anti-virals that promote immunity. Vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc and selenium are important vitamins and minerals for immune function and can help relieve the symptoms of HSV.
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