A preclinical study led by researchers from France's CEA, Institut Pasteur, and Institut Cochin has demonstrated a promising strategy for achieving HIV remission. The approach hinges on initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) very early—just four weeks after infection.
The research shows that this ultra-early treatment enables long-term control of the virus even after ART is stopped. Crucially, it also optimizes the immune response, enhancing the body's ability to suppress HIV replication post-treatment. This finding provides a significant proof of concept, suggesting that prompt intervention can alter the disease's course and potentially lead to a functional cure.