The large scale preparation of HIV-1 in permanent cell lines led to the development of a serological test for AIDS which enabled the detection of AIDS in our nation's blood supply. Detection of the virus in latent form has been established through the in situ hybridization method which allowed scientists to detect the virus in brain and blood cells, T lymphocytes and macrophages. Progress in treating children with AIDS has occurred through the rapid introduction of antiretroviral agents into clinical trials. The latter, based solely on Pediatric Branch Studies, occurred simultaneously with licensure for adults, a historical event.
Viral particles are detectable in plasma throughout the early stages of primary infection.
The number of viral particles in plasma decrease by up to 200-fold following the initial viremia of primary infection. The increase in viral particles bears an inverse relationship to CD4 count. Thus, the RNA-PCR assay may provide a sensitive marker of response to therapy. NCI scientists will initiate a study examining a new combination of AZT and a new purine analog, PMEA, by early 1994. Identification through the high-capacity AIDS drug screen of many new compounds which are active against the AIDS virus in tissue culture experiments.