PhD defence K.S. (Katie) Hensley

Below is a brief summary of the dissertation:

This thesis describes the search for ways to cure a currently incurable disease, HIV, and how vaccinations can prevent COVID-19 in people with HIV, even if the immune system is very weak due to AIDS.
Part I – The path towards an HIV cure
First, we delve into what scientists call HIV's hiding place (the reservoir). How does this reservoir behave? How does the immune system respond? Through in-depth research, we unravel this reservoir and measure the immune system's strength against HIV. Drugs that make the hidden HIV visible to the immune system are often effective, but they hardly reduce the reservoir and often cause mild side effects. We also studied a group of people with a unique type of HIV that is primarily found in West Africa (HIV-2). From this, we learned a new pattern in which people manage HIV without medication (an elite controller).
Part II – COVID-19 vaccines in people living with HIV
Because HIV weakens immunity, people with HIV are especially vulnerable to COVID 19. In a nationwide study in more than 1000 people living with HIV during the first vaccination rollout, we found that antibody levels were lower than in people without HIV. Having AIDS was found to be a strong predictor of poor vaccination response. In a follow up study, low responders received a booster and almost everyone mounted a strong response. 
Part III – When two pandemics collide
During the first COVID 19 wave and lockdown at Erasmus MC, HIV testing dropped and some people entered HIV care later.
Part IV – What it means
There are parallels between HIV and COVID 19. I believe what is needed to end the pandemics are: personalised strategies, early diagnosis and treatment, and strong (global) collaboration.