Hello,

I am not specialized in HIV/AIDS research, but this issue has come to my attention recently due to the pressing nature of the global public health crisis we are currently facing. I know work has been done with CRISPR, which I have some concerns about--especailly genetically modifying human embryos. I know there is some desperation, because it appears as if a vaccination may not be an option for prevention. Please let me know if you are aware of current research going on at your university on this issue, or if you have any insight that may assist me in looking into this further. I think there is great promise in genomic research, and any advances pertaining to retroviruses will greatly benefit humanity. When pathogenic DNA/RNA vectors leave a permanent mark on the human genome, I think that is extremely problematic. I think the virus illustrates the damage that can be done when the DNA code is altered, which is why I have always had reservations in doing research on this for therapeutic uses. But I am open to the necessity of this technology--as long as it is not used with ill-intent, which may already be occurring...I want to join the fight in ending this pathogenic mark on humanity once and for all. I am eager to learn anything you can tell me.

Thank you,

Matthew Schreiber