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Updated: Aug 29, 2026

Amplification of Near Full-length HIV-1 Proviruses for Next-Generation Sequencing
Published on: October 16, 2018
Near full-length genomes of 15 HIV type 1 group O isolates
Julie Yamaguchi1, Pierre Bodelle, Lazare Kaptué
1Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, Illinois 60064, USA.
Abstract:
Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is classified into three distinct groups; M (major), N (non-M/non-O), and O (outlier). Group M strains are further subclassified into subtypes, subsubtypes, and circulating recombinant forms (CRF). While the level of genetic diversity within group O is similar to that between group M subtypes, group O has not been classified into subtypes. A previous study, based on the phylogenetic analyses of the gag p24, pol p32, and env gp160 sequences from 39 group O isolates, laid the foundation for the classification of group O subtypes. Five phylogenetic clusters, I-V, were identified that have characteristics analogous to group M subtypes. However, a complete phylogenetic analysis and classification of group O requires the availability of at least two full-length and one partial genomes for each group O phylogenetic cluster. In this study, 15 group O isolates were selected for full genome sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis of the 15 sequences with eight additional group O genomes supports the classification of three group O subtypes (I-III) and the potential existence of one CRF (IV) and at least one additional subtype (V). The group O subtypes are equidistant to each other and lack subsegments of other subtypes. The intra- and intersubtype genetic distances for group O are similar in magnitude to the corresponding distances for group M subtypes. Intersubtype recombination was identified in three of the 23 (13%) group O genomes. Formal classification of group O subtypes should be forthcoming pending the analysis of additional group O genomes and agreement of the HIV nomenclature committee.
Insights
This study proposes a classification for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) group O, identifying three distinct subtypes (I-III) and potential circulating recombinant forms. This advances HIV-1 genetic diversity understanding.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) comprises groups M, N, and O, with group M extensively subclassified.
- Group O, despite genetic diversity comparable to group M subtypes, lacks formal subtype classification.
- Previous phylogenetic analyses suggested five clusters within group O, necessitating further genomic data for classification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To perform comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of group O HIV-1 isolates.
- To establish a formal classification system for group O HIV-1 subtypes.
- To investigate genetic diversity and recombination within group O.
Main Methods:
- Full genome sequencing of 15 group O HIV-1 isolates.
- Phylogenetic analysis incorporating 15 new sequences and 8 existing group O genomes.
- Analysis of intra- and intersubtype genetic distances and identification of recombination events.
Main Results:
- Phylogenetic analysis supports the classification of three group O subtypes (I-III).
- Evidence suggests the potential existence of one circulating recombinant form (CRF) (IV) and at least one additional subtype (V).
- Intra- and intersubtype genetic distances for group O are comparable to group M subtypes; 13% of genomes showed intersubtype recombination.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a robust framework for classifying group O HIV-1 subtypes.
- Formal classification awaits further genomic data and consensus from the HIV nomenclature committee.
- Findings contribute to a deeper understanding of HIV-1 genetic diversity and evolution.
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