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Create Immunological Methods that can Cure Chronic Infections
New approaches to the identification of antigens and to the control of immune system activity suggest the possibility of altering the immune response to chronic and persistent infections in order to cure the infection and/or prevent their ability to cause disease.
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We do not know how to direct the immune system to specifically kill cells chronically infected with viruses, particularly where the virus has integrated into the host genome. Furthermore, in bacterial or protozoal diseases, cells can harbor pathogens which lie dormant until some form of reactivation. If we can develop a vaccine or other approach that enhances the natural ability of the immune system (to keep the percentage of infected cells below some critical level), in order to completely remove the infected cells, or to terminate infection without inducing autoimmunity, we can help millions suffering from chronic infections.
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