Scientists
have for the first time grown vaginal
skin cells outside the body to better identify the good bacteria that protect
women from HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Researchers
at the University of Texas Medical
Branch at Galveston and the Oak Crest Institute of Science in Pasadena,
California, set out to study the relationship between the skin cells and
the "good" bacteria. The health of the human vagina depends on a
symbiotic/mutually beneficial relationship with "good" bacteria that
live on its surface feeding on products produced by vaginal skin cells. These
good bacteria, in turn, create a physical and chemical barrier to bad bacteria
and viruses including HIV.
What is HIV?
HIV
is a virus that attacks the body's immune system-the body's defence against
diseases. The latest research suggests
that between 70 and 90 per cent of people may experience symptoms of infection
a few days after having been infected.
Three symptoms occuring together: fever, rash and a severe sore throat
should always be considered a potential indicator of HIV infection.