HIV-1 Evolution in Long-Term Non-Progressors
Author Information
Author(s): Canducci Filippo, Marinozzi Maria Chiara, Sampaolo Michela, Berrè Stefano, Bagnarelli Patrizia, Degano Massimo, Gallotta Giulia, Mazzi Benedetta, Lemey Philippe, Burioni Roberto, Clementi Massimo
Primary Institution: Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
Hypothesis
What are the dynamic features of selective pressure on the HIV-1 gp120 CD4-binding site in long-term non-progressor subjects?
Conclusion
The study found strong selective pressure on the HIV-1 CD4-binding site in long-term non-progressors, suggesting important implications for immune control strategies.
Supporting Evidence
- The evolutionary rate was calculated separately for the first, second, and third codon positions.
- In all LTNPs, the third codon mutation rate was equal to or lower than that observed at the first and second positions.
- A significant number of N-linked glycosylation sites under positive selection were identified.
Takeaway
This study looked at how HIV changes in people who don't get sick from it. It found that the virus is under a lot of pressure to change in certain important areas.
Methodology
High-resolution phylogenetic analysis of the C2-C5 env gene sequences was performed on samples collected over 3–5 years from untreated HIV-1-infected subjects.
Limitations
The study was limited to a small sample size of seven patients and focused only on specific regions of the HIV genome.
Participant Demographics
The study included 7 untreated HIV-1 infected patients, with 2 normal progressors and 5 long-term non-progressors.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.016
Statistical Significance
p = 0.016
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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