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Nobel prize for scientists who discovered HIV

06/10/2008

The Nobel prize for medicine has been jointly awarded to two scientists for uncovering the virus responsible for Aids and an expert who linked human papillpoma virus (HPV) and cervical cancer.

Francoise Barre-Sinousi and Luc Montagnier, of France, received the award for their groundbreaking work in the discovery of HIV.

And Germany's Harald zur Hausen was recognised for his work in linking the HPV and cervical cancer.

In a statement, the Nobel Assembly said the work of Mr Barre-Sinousi and Mr Montagnier made rapid cloning of the HIV-1 genome possible.

"This has allowed identification of important details in its replication cycle and how the virus interacts with its host. Furthermore, it led to development of methods to diagnose infected patients and to screen blood products, which has limited the spread of the pandemic," the assembly said.

In praising the work of Mr zur Hausen, the assembly claimed the German scientist had "demonstrated novel properties of HPV that have led to an understanding of mechanisms for papilloma virus-induced carcinogenesis and the predisposing factors for viral persistence and cellular transformation.

"He made HPV16 and 18 available to the scientific community. Vaccines were ultimately developed that provide a 95 per cent protection from infection by the high risk HPV16 and 18 types. The vaccines may also reduce the need for surgery and the global burden of cervical cancer."

Around 3,000 women in the UK are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year.