Researchers have developed a sexually transmitted treatment for HIV

Engineered particles that could be injected into people living in high-risk populations may combat HIV in their hosts, as well as in the sexual partners of treated individuals, according to recent research published in the journal PLoS Computational Biology.

The scientists said that the new particles, which upset the progression of HIV by imitating certain functions of the virus, would be most effective if used in combination with current medications for the disease.

Therapeutic interfering particles (TIPs) would remain dormant in individuals who receive the treatment, unless they are subsequently exposed to HIV.

Candidates for TIP therapy would include people who partake in high-risk behaviors such as unprotected sex or injection drug use. The researchers said they aim to treat individuals with these habits because at-risk individuals may spread the virus-like particles to others while engaging in these activities.

The investigators predicted that if TIPs were used in sub-Saharan African populations for 30 years, the HIV transmission rate would decrease thirty-fold.

Anyone who would like to be screened for sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, may consider using online testing services.