Travel and the spread of HIV-1 genetic variants.
HIV-1 comprises three groups, the main (M group), O (outlier) and N (non-M, non-O). The M group, divided into 11 subtypes, is responsible for the global HIV-1 pandemic. Recombination between M subtypes has resulted in the generation of multiple circulating recombinant forms (CRFs) consisting of mosaic lineages. Most subtypes and CRFs are represented in Africa, whereas predominance of one or a few subtypes was reported initially elsewhere. This finding reflects the African origin of the epidemic. In western countries, where the B subtype is predominant, there is a steep increase in non B-subtypes and CRFs, while new recombinants emerge worldwide. Travellers contribute to the spread of HIV-1 genetic diversity worldwide, and in the developing world migration of rural populations and civil war are additional contributing factors. The spreading of HIV-1 variants has implications for diagnostic, treatment, and vaccine development.
Perrin
Luc
L
Laboratory of Virology, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Geneva, Switzerland. luc.perrin@hcuge.ch
Kaiser
Laurent
L
Yerly
Sabine
S
D005260:Female; D014644:Genetic Variation; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000635:transmission; D015497:HIV-1 / Q000145:classification / Q000235:genetics / Q000472:pathogenicity; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D014195:Travel