HIV has evolved multiple mechanisms to evade inhibition by antibodies, which are Y-shaped immune system proteins that normally play a key role in fending off or controlling infections. Most antibodies that the immune system generates against HIV are ineffective and cannot block infection or viral replication. Over the past decade or so, technological advances have allowed researchers to identify rare antibodies that have very strong anti-HIV activity against multiple viral variants from around the world. These antibodies are categorized as broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs). Many different bNAbs are now being manufactured to allow for testing in clinical trials as candidate HIV treatments, preventive agents, and in the context of cure-related research. TAG’s July 2023 fact sheet provides an update on research into bNAbs by scientists pursuing the development of an HIV cure.