Scientists say a plant protein found in bananas could be a powerful weapon in the fight against HIV.
A research team at an American university says the lectin found in bananas proved as potent as two current anti-HIV drugs in laboratory tests.
The lectin effectively stops infections by outsmarting HIV and preventing it from becoming integrated in a target cell.
Scientists say new weapons in the fight against HIV are urgently needed, and these lectins are one of the most promising options.
The University of Michigan researchers believe that vaginal microbicides made with this plant protein could be a cheap and effective treatment, particularly in developing countries.
– BBC
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