Is there a cure for HIV after 40 years?

While not a complete cure, science is exploring a 'functional' cure for HIV, offering significant hope.

How did the Black Death reach Europe?

The Black Death likely arrived in Europe via grain imported by Italian city-states, spread along trade routes.

What is Kate Bishop's role in HIV research?

Kate Bishop is a principal group leader at the Francis Crick Institute, involved in HIV research.

Home / Science / HIV Cure Closer? Science Explores Functional Treatment

HIV Cure Closer? Science Explores Functional Treatment

4 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A functional cure for HIV may be within reach, nearly 40 years after the first treatment.
Tree rings and historical records link grain trade routes to the Black Death's spread.
Volcanoes and European trade routes played a role in the Black Death's arrival.

HIV Cure Closer? Science Explores Functional Treatment

Scientific advancements are bringing the possibility of a functional cure for HIV closer to reality, nearly four decades after the initial treatment was introduced with a caveat that it was not a cure. This potential breakthrough was discussed around World AIDS Day, offering significant hope.

In parallel, compelling historical research has illuminated the spread of the Black Death. By analyzing tree ring data alongside historical records, scientists have uncovered how trade routes, particularly the import of grain to Italian city-states, played a crucial role in bringing the devastating pandemic to Europe.

This research also suggests connections between volcanic activity and trade networks in understanding the historical impact of past pandemics. These diverse scientific explorations highlight the interconnectedness of natural events, human activity, and disease.