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CCR5-Δ32 gene variant frequency in the Turkish Cypriot population

Umut Fahrioglu1,2, Mahmut Cerkez Ergoren3,4, Gamze Mocan3,5

  • 1Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Near East University, 99138, Nicosia, Cyprus. umut.fahrioglu@neu.edu.tr.

Brazilian Journal of Microbiology : [Publication of the Brazilian Society for Microbiology]
|August 1, 2020
PubMed

Insights

The CCR5-Δ32 gene variant, offering resistance to certain HIV-1 infections, was found in 3% of the Turkish Cypriot population. This finding highlights the need for targeted HIV screening programs.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Immunology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Global HIV-1 infections remain a significant public health concern, with millions newly infected annually.
  • HIV-1 entry into host cells depends on CD4 receptors and chemokine co-receptors, notably CCR5.
  • The CCR5-Δ32 allele confers resistance to M-tropic HIV-1 strains, making its population frequency a key factor in understanding transmission dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the frequency of the CCR5-Δ32 allele in the Turkish Cypriot population.
  • To assess the potential implications of this allele frequency for HIV-1 susceptibility and screening strategies within the region.

Main Methods:

  • Genotyping of 326 Turkish Cypriots (141 males, 185 females) for the CCR5 gene.
  • Amplification of the CCR5 gene region containing the Δ32 deletion using specific primers.
  • Calculation of the CCR5-Δ32 allele frequency based on observed genotypes.

Main Results:

  • The CCR5-Δ32 allele frequency was found to be 3% in the studied Turkish Cypriot population.
  • The Δ32 allele was exclusively observed in heterozygous individuals.
  • No homozygous individuals for the CCR5-Δ32 allele were identified.

Conclusions:

  • The 3% frequency of the CCR5-Δ32 allele in Turkish Cypriots suggests a partial genetic resistance to M-tropic HIV-1.
  • This data can inform public health strategies, including the development of more effective HIV screening and prevention programs.
  • Further research and dialogue among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public are crucial for controlling and potentially eliminating HIV in the region.

Keywords:
Allele frequencyCCR5-Δ32HIVPublic health policyTurkish Cypriots

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