Trial approved for saliva test
Article Abstract:
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved clinical trials to evaluate a new test for AIDS antibodies. The test is unique in that it requires only a sample of saliva, not blood, and may provide the basis for a "do-it-yourself" test for HIV infection. The test involves placing a pad between the gums and the cheek for two minutes; the pad soaks up antibodies, which are present in the saliva as well as in the blood. The pad is then placed in a vial and sent to a laboratory where it is subjected to essentially the same testing as a blood specimen. Scientists at Epitope, Inc., the developer of the test, will carry out nine months of testing during which the results from the saliva test will be compared with results from testing blood samples. If the test is approved by the FDA, the company hopes to market it worldwide. The procedures which would be followed after the identification of a positive specimen have not yet been decided upon, however. In the long run, the company hopes to develop a process which would allow the entire AIDS test to be conducted at home; the privacy of home testing might encourage more individuals to be tested. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1990
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Gore's humanitarianism loses out to strong-arm tactics
Article Abstract:
Antenatal clinic surveys in South Africa have shown that 22% of sexually active adults are infected with HIV. The drug cocktails used in the developed world are unaffordable to most in South Africa, an din 1997 the government passed a law whereby the health minister can call on local manufacturers to make cheaper version of the drugs, in a form of compulsory licensing. The international pharmaceutical industry sued in South Africa and the implementation of the law was delayed. Al Gore and US Trade Representatives are urging South Africa to rewrite or overturn the law.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1999
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