Coral Reefs Packed With New Anti-HIV Proteins

A new class of proteins adapted for use in gels or sexual lubricants to provide a potent barrier against HIV infection thereby blocking the virus from penetrating T-cells. The proteins, called cnidarins, were found in a feathery coral collected in waters off Australia's northern coast. Researchers zeroed in on the proteins after screening thousands of natural product extracts in a biorepository maintained by the National Cancer Institute. "It's always thrilling when you find ...