HTLV-III in the semen and blood of a healthy homosexual man

Science. 1984 Oct 26;226(4673):451-3. doi: 10.1126/science.6208608.

Abstract

Human T-lymphotropic virus type III (HTLV-III) is the probable etiologic agent for the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). HTLV-III was isolated from semen and blood of a healthy homosexual man whose serum contains antibodies to HTLV-III. The finding of virus in semen supports epidemiologic data that suggest that AIDS can be transmitted sexually. In addition, the demonstration of HTLV-III in the blood and semen of a healthy individual establishes an asymptomatic, virus-positive carrier state which may be important in the dissemination of HTLV-III and, consequently, AIDS.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Blood / microbiology*
  • Carrier State
  • Cytopathogenic Effect, Viral
  • Deltaretrovirus / isolation & purification*
  • Homosexuality*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Microscopy, Electron
  • RNA-Directed DNA Polymerase / analysis
  • Semen / microbiology*

Substances

  • RNA-Directed DNA Polymerase