Bananas may help fight AIDS
POSTED March 16, 2010 - 11:48 | POSTED BY Kangna Agarwal
Last edited by Harpreet Bhagrath on March 16, 2010 - 12:14
The researchers are hopeful that of all the available therapies, the fruit may become one of the least expensive treatments to prevent the sexual transmission of the lethal virus and save millions of lives.
Laboratory test
In laboratory tests, the scientists found that a key ingredient of the fruit, called Banlec, the lectin found in bananas, was shown to be as effective as two currently available anti-HIV drugs.
They found that lectin found in the fruit acted as a potent HIV inhibitor by blocking the virus’s entry into the body.
The chemicals acted on the “envelope” that is known to amass the HIV genetic material.
Lead author Michael Swanson, from the University of Michigan, said, "The problem with some HIV drugs is that the virus can mutate and become resistant, but that's much harder to do in the presence of lectins.
"Lectins can bind to the sugars found on different spots of the HIV-1 envelope, and presumably it will take multiple mutations for the virus to get around them."
The researchers also pointed out that BanLec may lead to an applied vaginal microbicide treatment which may significantly help women who don’t have much say in sexual encounters, particularly in developing countries.
"That’s particularly true in developing countries where women have little control over sexual encounters so development of a long-lasting, self-applied microbicide is very attractive," Marvovitz said.
The study appears in the Journal of Biological Chemistry.
Health benefits of bananas
Along with lectins, bananas contain considerable amounts of potassium, essential mineral to keep one’s heart and nervous system in good shape. Potassium content of bananas is also beneficial for kidneys and bones.
The fruit also acts as a mild sedative as it contains amino acid called tryptophan. This acid helps the body to produce serotonin which has a calming effect on the brain.
Bananas are also a rich source of vitamin B6 which helps the body to make hemoglobin, a crucial ingredient of blood. Vitamin B6 is also essential for maintaining a healthy immune response and controlling blood sugar levels.
Experts say that a single serving of the fruit contains 16 percent of the daily recommended dietary fiber intake for a normal adult. Studies have linked fiber-rich diets to a reduced risk of heart disease as well as type 2 diabetes.
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