Salt Lake City, Utah – Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world includes a diverse group ranging from actress Kristen Wiig to University of Utah biochemistry professor Wesley Sundquist. Sundquist, alongside virologist Tomas Cihlar, was recognized for their groundbreaking work leading to a unique HIV treatment and prevention drug known as lenacapavir. Their tireless efforts have paved the way for a revolutionary medical breakthrough.
The duo’s collaboration resulted in a twice-a-year injectable drug that boasts nearly 100% efficacy in preventing HIV infection among at-risk individuals. Sundquist’s journey began in the late ’90s when his biochemistry lab delved into studying HIV capsids, uncovering the virus’s vulnerabilities on a molecular level. This pivotal research laid the foundation for disrupting the virus’s ability to infect human cells.
Through partnerships with colleagues like Cihlar at Gilead Sciences, this research culminated in the development and manufacture of lenacapavir, a long-acting treatment that disrupts the infection process at an earlier stage than traditional HIV medications. The drug’s success in clinical trials conducted in South Africa and Uganda has positioned it for potential approval as a pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV contraction.
Despite the strides made in HIV/AIDS treatment, the issue remains prevalent globally, particularly in regions like eastern and southern Africa. Sundquist remains committed to advancing scientific understanding, emphasizing the collaborative nature of scientific research and the critical role played by graduate students and postdoctoral scholars.
As the scientific community eagerly anticipates the FDA’s decision on lenacapavir, Sundquist reflects on the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and shared dedication to tackling complex challenges. The recognition by Time magazine serves as a testament to the impact of their work, underlining the collective effort required to drive meaningful progress in the fight against HIV.