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We are already making strides in curing HIV, the immune system virus that causes AIDS. The virus still causes nearly two million deaths annually because it develops drug resistant mutations so quickly.

Now, researchers at Drexel University have a different approach altogether. They are using a molecule that tricks the virus into self destructing before it infects cells.

HIV works by latching onto healthy cells and inserting its DNA and filling them up with HIV. Drexel University's Dual Action Virolytic Entry Inhibitor, or DAVEI, uses a modified component of HIV's cell binding mechanism with a protein that tricks the virus into opening its protective coating.

DAVEI will then bind HIV and make the virus react as if it's attached to a cell, making it spit out its contents. DAVEI then scatters the components of the virus and destroys the capsule needed to insert them into a cell.

Destroying the virus could prevent the immunodeficiency from ever taking hold. There's still a long way more to go before DAVEI can see any real life action, but so far, it's looking pretty good. Check out the video below for a demonstration:  [MedicalXpress]