Noguchi Achieves HIV Therapy Breakthrough

Ground-breaking research from the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) offers a potential shift in HIV care, utilising herbal extracts to target the virus with fewer side effects.

The therapy, developed from two compounds found in native Ghanaian plants, demonstrates a high selectivity index, meaning it can kill the HIV virus while leaving healthy cells unharmed. This contrasts with current antiretroviral therapies (ARTs) which, while effective, can lead to liver and kidney complications requiring regular monitoring.

“This is going to eliminate the need for that because we have a healthy product,” explained Dr Adriel Cyrus Moodley, lead rapporteur for Track ‘A’ at the 2025 International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA). He noted the compounds are naturally occurring, unlike synthesised drugs.

While laboratory testing is complete, Dr Moodley was quick to add that ARTs remain the primary method of fighting HIV, and are currently more accessible. “ARTs suppressed viral replication, and although they are good, they come with the burden of taking medications long term,” he said.

The NMIMR’s research, however, offers a different approach. According to Dr Moodley, the herbal discovery doesn’t just stop the virus from replicating, it “blocks the HIV and locks it away.” “That’s awesome! I’ve been treating HIV for 15 years. I’ve never heard of such a thing in my life. That’s why it’s so exciting,” he exclaimed.

Dr Moodley, a general practitioner from South Africa, stressed the importance of revisiting herbal treatments, focusing on identifying and refining active ingredients. He cautioned against excessive manipulation of these natural compounds.

The research was presented at ICASA, hosted in Ghana from December 3 to 8. Dr Moodley’s team included Chief Research Assistant, Diana Asema Asare, and Research Fellow, Dr Nana Afia Asante Ntim, both from the Noguchi Institute.

Currently, the herbal extracts are known only by code names, as the research is still being finalised for publication. Dr Moodley highlighted the difference between this approach and traditional drug development, where scientists create drugs to target specific parts of the virus, whereas the Noguchi study leverages pre-existing compounds within the plants.

Dr Moodley believes that a cure for AIDS could be within reach by 2030, advocating for increased research into multimodal approaches. Other findings presented at ICASA included the first African clinical trial into HIV, the use of Treg Cells as potential immunotherapy, and advancements in TB detection for those co-infected with HIV.

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