South Korean researchers have discovered enzymes that break down the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes AIDS.
 
A research team led by Professor Ahn Kwang-seog of Seoul National University found that a protein made up of 626 amino acids suppresses infection by breaking down ribonucleic acids (RNA) that make HIV genetic codes.
 
The research team said there has been difficulty in developing vaccines until now, as HIV quickly mutates. The newly found protein can break down the RNA of HIV regardless of mutations and may provide clues in developing AIDS vaccines.
 
The research was featured in the online edition of the academic journal Nature Medicine.