Armonk, N.Y.-based IBM Corp. Tuesday announced a new research effort to help battle AIDS using the massive World Community Grid.
IBM said the grid consists of computer users worldwide who donate unused time on their personal computers. With computational power already placing it among the top 10 supercomputers in the world, the World Community Grid will be the first virtual supercomputer devoted specifically to AIDS research, IBM said.
In cooperation with the Scripps Research Institute, the grid will host its second major project -- the Internet-based FightAIDS@Home -- an evolutionary research project dedicated to finding new AIDS therapies.
The initiative will use massive computer power to develop novel chemical strategies effective in the treatment of HIV-infected individuals.
IBM said more than 100,000 individuals are now volunteering power from 170,000 computers to help find a cure for AIDS through the World Community Grid.
Copyright 2005 by United Press International
