Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 subtypes prevalence in central China

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Epidemiology
• Genetics

Background:

• The primary Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) transmission route in Henan, China, was historically through paid blood donation.
• Understanding HIV-1 genetic diversity is crucial for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemic characteristics and genetic variations of HIV-1 subtypes in Henan, central China.
• To identify transmission sources and routes of HIV-1 in a region with a history of paid blood donation.
• To inform Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) prevention strategies.

Main Methods:

• Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify HIV-1 env and gag genes.
• Samples were obtained from 1,287 confirmed HIV-1 cases in Henan.
• Phylogenetic analysis was performed on amplified gene sequences.

Main Results:

• Subtype B' was the predominant HIV-1 strain (95.9%), similar to strains found in Thailand.
• Subtypes C, CRF 07_BC, CRF 08_BC, and CRF 01_AE were identified for the first time in this region.
• Subtype B' was dominant in former blood plasma donors, while subtype B' and BC were dominant in sexual transmission.

Conclusions:

• The dominant HIV-1 strain in Henan is subtype B', with increasing genetic complexity due to the emergence of new subtypes and recombinants.
• HIV-1 subtype distribution varies by transmission route, with non-B' subtypes being more prevalent in infections not linked to paid blood donation.
• Findings highlight the evolving HIV-1 epidemic in central China and the need for ongoing surveillance.