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A Restriction Enzyme Based Cloning Method to Assess the In vitro Replication Capacity of HIV-1 Subtype C Gag-MJ4 Chimeric Viruses
Published on: August 31, 2014
Short communication: Emergence of novel A/G recombinant HIV-1 strains in Argentina
María F Fernández1, Marcelo D Golemba, Carmen Terrones
11 Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Retrovirus, Hospital de Pediatría "Juan P. Garrahan"-CONICET , Buenos Aires, Argentina .
Abstract:
The predominant circulating HIV-1 strains in South America are subtype B and B/F recombinants with different distributions among countries. However, the emergence of other subtypes is a matter of concern and needs continuous monitoring. We identified three different A/G recombinants in Argentina, two of them in vertically infected children from unlinked mothers and one in an adult female. HIV-1 pol sequences from the children showed novel A/G recombination patterns and no phylogenetic relationship with previously reported South American A/G sequences. The third A/G recombinant was a CRF06_cpx with African origin. The detection of new or unusual subtypes is important to avoid false-negative PCR HIV-1 early diagnosis due to detection failures and for future vaccine development.
Insights
New human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) A/G recombinants were identified in Argentina, including novel patterns in children. Continuous monitoring is crucial for early diagnosis and vaccine development.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- South America predominantly sees HIV-1 subtype B and B/F recombinants.
- Emergence and spread of other HIV-1 subtypes require ongoing surveillance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize novel HIV-1 subtypes circulating in Argentina.
- To assess the implications of new subtype detection for diagnostics and vaccine research.
Main Methods:
- HIV-1 pol gene sequencing from clinical samples.
- Phylogenetic analysis to determine genetic relationships and origins.
- Recombination analysis to identify unique genetic patterns.
Main Results:
- Three distinct HIV-1 A/G recombinants were identified in Argentina.
- Two novel A/G recombinants with unique patterns were found in vertically infected children.
- A third A/G recombinant, CRF06_cpx of African origin, was identified in an adult.
Conclusions:
- The findings highlight the genetic diversity of HIV-1 in South America beyond established subtypes.
- Detection of novel recombinants is vital for accurate early HIV-1 diagnosis, especially in children.
- Understanding HIV-1 subtype distribution is essential for effective vaccine design and public health strategies.
