Maternal-fetal DNA admixture is associated with intrapartum mother-to-child transmission of HIV-1 in Blantyre, Malawi.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The mechanism of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV-1 is not well described.

Methods

Of 328 HIV-infected mother-infant pairs, we identified 91 that had discordant angiotensin I-converting enzyme and glutathione S-transferase M1 alleles. Maternal alleles in cord blood were quantified with real-time polymerase chain reaction, as indicators of microtransfusions.

Results

HIV-1 infected infants had more maternal DNA in cord blood than their uninfected counterparts. Increased maternal DNA in cord blood was associated with preterm delivery, low birth weight, and maternal immunosuppression.

Conclusion

Intrapartum MTCT was associated with placental microtransfusions. The associations among placental microtransfusion, in-utero MTCT, maternal immunosupp

SUBMITTER: Kwiek JJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2443405 | biostudies-literature | 2008 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature