The implications of this finding are staggering. It could be possible to block CCR5 receptors during a time of initial infection without affecting an individual's immune system. These individuals have no CCR5 on their T cells or macrophages, yet they show normal immune responses and remain healthy. This indicates that lack of CCR5 function is not harmful to the immune system, perhaps because other chemokines receptors, like CCR3, take over CCR5's function. Safer sex is the only way we have to prevent HIV infection.
Much work still needs to be done.
Scientists are at work to try to develop chemokines antagonists for the CXCR4 receptor.