HIV is biological spam

This deal is pretty interesting: Just as a computer’s spam filter “learns” to recognize new variations from the same spammer, it is hoped a computer can learn to decipher some fundamental repeat patterns about HIV’s genetic variability and narrow the search for vaccine targets. “HIV mutates by making errors in its (genetic) copying,” Jojic said. … Continue reading “HIV is biological spam”

This deal is pretty interesting:

Just as a computer’s spam filter “learns” to recognize new variations from the same spammer, it is hoped a computer can learn to decipher some fundamental repeat patterns about HIV’s genetic variability and narrow the search for vaccine targets.

“HIV mutates by making errors in its (genetic) copying,” Jojic said. But it can make only so many errors, he said, if it hopes to retain the genetic equivalent of the spammer’s intended e-mail.

If these techniques can identify genetic sequences retained by HIV despite its many disguises, the researchers believe this could identify critical parts of the viral DNA to target in developing a vaccine.


h/t Geek News Central

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