The RIO study tested whether broadly neutralizing antibodies could safely replace daily HIV therapy. In a rigorously designed trial, 75% of participants maintained viral suppression for 20 weeks after stopping antiretrovirals. The findings mark a pivotal step toward potential HIV remission and more flexible treatment strategies.

Dr. Sarah Fidler discusses the challenges of lifelong antiretroviral therapy for HIV and the need for alternative approaches. She highlights broadly neutralising antibodies (bNAbs) as a promising strategy that targets the virus and dormant infected cells, potentially enabling longer-term control by harnessing the immune system’s memory without daily medication.