Immune-based therapies (IBT) target the immune system directly to improve function or prevent immunologic deterioration. Some of the science and early research data suggest that immune-based therapies may be a viable method to stimulate and restore the immune system to contain HIV alone, or in combination with structured antiretroviral therapies. The reason so many people are hopeful is that immune-based therapies would involve much less taking of pills, by stopping or interrupting use of antiviral treatment. Details of the science and clinical results to date were presented at an immune-based therapy teach-in on December 14th, 1999 at 6:30 p.m., in Boston?s John Hancock Center, 40 Trinity Place. Also being presented were the latest strategies for HIV management.

The conference was sponsored by Search for a Cure, AIDS Action Committee, The Boston Living Center, Community Servings, AIDS Care Project, Positive Directions, Fenway Community Health Center, North Shore AIDS Project, Nutrition for Healthy Living, Somerville AIDS Consortium & Community Research Initiative (CRI).

Funding for this conference coverage was provided by Agouron and Chiron.

Cal Cohen, M.D., who will be presenting, will also provide exclusive coverage to The Body.

Community Forum Summaries:

Tuesday, December 14, 1999

• Can HIV-Specific Immunity Be Created?
• Interleukin 2: Its Potential Role in HIV Therapy
  
• Therapeutic Vaccinations
  
• What about Very Low Dose IL-2?
  
• Future Directions and Clinical Trials