Stem cells may be key to AIDS cure, researchers say
Researchers from the UCLA AIDS Institute announced this week that stem cells may be used to kill HIV. A report in the online medical journal PLoS ONE said that the team has demonstrated that stem cells can be engineered into cells that can target and kill HIV-infected T-cells.
The study is at a "proof-of-principle" stage, which means they have demonstrated the feasibility of the idea that stem cells might be used to fight AIDS. The researchers said the work proves they may be able to develop the equivalent of a genetic vaccine.
The approach could be used against a number of chronic viral diseases, according to one of the researchers.
Hot line for LGBT victims of domestic violence established
The North Texas LGBT Family Violence Coalition has established a 24-hour toll-free hotline for members of the LGBT community who find themselves in a domestic violence situation.
Agencies in the coalition include law enforcement, universities, religious organizations, and domestic violence and social service providers. The phone line is staffed by members of the Coalition and funded locally by Resource Center Dallas.
The national, toll-free hotline provides LGBT individuals who feel they may be in an abusive relationship with information and referrals needed to obtain support. Calls are routed through the Center.
The number is 866-620-9650.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition December 11, 2009.