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pubmed:otherAbstract |
PIP: In South Africa, claims that the drug Virodene P058 inhibits progression of HIV infection have been condemned. The claims were forwarded by a team from Pretoria University which conducted its experiments without obtaining the required permission, demonstrated a lack of specific scientific skill, lacked a proper control group, and worked in secret. Virodene P058 contains diethylformamide, a toxic industrial solvent which has not been shown to inhibit HIV protease. The researchers also garnered criticism for bypassing normal procedures and presenting their results directly to the minister of health in a bid to obtain funding. Critics also voiced concern about the creation of a private company by one of the researchers. The research team, which has threatened to take legal action against the team of experts convened to look into the matter, faces additional charges of professional negligence or misconduct.
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