12/06/2025
Scientists have successfully used CRISPR gene-editing technology to cut HIV out of human immune cells for the first time in history. The University of Amsterdam team demonstrated they can completely eliminate the virus from infected cells using molecular scissors that target and remove viral DNA embedded in the human genome.
The breakthrough builds on the first human trial of EBT-101-001, conducted by Excision BioTherapeutics and Washington University. Six HIV-positive patients received a single intravenous injection containing CRISPR molecules delivered by a modified virus that specifically targets CD4+ T cells where HIV hides. The treatment seeks out dormant viral DNA and cuts it from the cell's genetic code.
No patients experienced serious adverse events, and crucially, no off-target DNA damage occurred-meaning CRISPR only cut where intended without harming healthy genetic material. The treatment cleared completely from patients' bloodstreams within six months, leaving behind permanently edited cells.
One patient showed particularly promising results with delayed viral rebound lasting almost 16 weeks after stopping HIV medications, compared to typical rebounds within days. This patient also demonstrated a significant drop in their HIV reservoir-the hidden pool of infected cells that current drugs cannot eliminate.
The approach targets HIV's most persistent weakness. Unlike medications that suppress active virus, CRISPR attacks the dormant viral DNA integrated into immune cell genomes. These latent reservoirs force patients to take daily antiretroviral therapy for life, because stopping treatment allows sleeping virus to reawaken and multiply rapidly.
Dr. Rachel Presti from Washington University calls this "a first step" toward eliminating HIV entirely from the body. While HIV rebounded in all patients who temporarily stopped medications, the delayed rebound in one participant suggests CRISPR successfully reduced their viral reservoir-proof that permanently editing out HIV is scientifically possible.
