Significant Advances in HIV Research and Treatment: A New Era of Hope

As the world prepares to observe the 37th World AIDS Day on December 1, 2024, there is a palpable sense of optimism and progress in the fight against HIV. Recent developments, particularly in Spain, highlight the groundbreaking work being done to combat this disease.

Gilead Sciences Acquires Promising HIV Vaccine Assets

In a major milestone, Gilead Sciences has acquired the investigational assets for the HTI therapeutic HIV vaccine from AELIX Therapeutics, a Barcelona-based biopharmaceutical company. This vaccine, developed by researchers at IrsiCaixa, including Christian Brander, Beatriz Mothe, and Anuska Llano, has shown promising results in phase 1 and phase 2 clinical trials.

The HTI immunogen, designed to target the most vulnerable regions of the HIV virus, represents a strategic approach aimed at overcoming the limitations of current therapies. This acquisition by Gilead Sciences, a leader in HIV research, is seen as a significant step forward in the development of innovative strategies for curing HIV. Thomas Hecht, Executive Chairman of AELIX, expressed excitement about the potential of this immunogen to become a crucial aspect in the search for an HIV cure.

Progress in HIV Care for Migrants in the EU/EEA

While the acquisition of the HTI vaccine assets is a beacon of hope, there are also efforts to improve HIV care across various populations. In the European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA), there has been progress in reaching the continuum of HIV care targets for migrants. According to recent data, approximately 93% of migrants living with HIV in the EU/EEA are aware of their HIV status, and 84% of those diagnosed have initiated antiretroviral treatment (ART). Moreover, 95% of migrants on treatment have achieved viral suppression.

However, despite this progress, only a few countries are meeting the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) 95-95-95 targets, which aim for 95% of people living with HIV to be diagnosed, 95% of those diagnosed to be on treatment, and 95% of those on treatment to be virally suppressed. Luxembourg is currently the only country meeting the overall target of 86% viral suppression among all people living with HIV.

Global Commitment and Challenges

The global response to HIV is marked by both progress and challenges. The theme of World AIDS Day 2024, "Collective Action: Sustain and Accelerate HIV Progress," underscores the need for continued collaboration and innovation. In the United States, initiatives such as the "Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S." (EHE) have led to increases in HIV testing, rapid linkage to care, and improved detection and response to HIV transmission.

However, global efforts are being hindered by declining investment in HIV research and treatment. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has highlighted the need for increased support, particularly for low- and middle-income countries, to reach the annual $29 billion funding goal by 2025. This funding is crucial for sustaining and accelerating progress toward ending the HIV epidemic.

Addressing Stigma and Ensuring Equitable Access

HIV stigma remains a significant barrier to progress. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working to reduce stigma through campaigns like "Let's Stop HIV Together," which aims to empower communities and health care providers with resources on HIV prevention and treatment. The message of "U=U" (Undetectable = Untransmittable) has been a powerful tool in reducing stigma and increasing adherence to antiretroviral therapy.

In Spain, the collaboration between scientific research and business innovation, as seen in the partnership between IrsiCaixa and Gilead Sciences, is a model for transforming discoveries into tangible solutions. This collective action, both locally and globally, is essential for sustaining and accelerating the progress made in the fight against HIV.

As the world marks World AIDS Day 2024, it is clear that while significant strides have been made, there is still much work to be done. The commitment to ending the HIV epidemic requires continued innovation, funding, and a collective effort to address the social and structural barriers that hinder progress. With the HTI therapeutic vaccine and other advancements on the horizon, there is renewed hope for a future where HIV is no longer a life-threatening disease.