Extreme genetic divergence is required for coreceptor switching in HIV-1 subtype C.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Coreceptor switching from CCR5 to CXCR4 is less common in subtype C HIV-1 infection than in subtype B for reasons that are unclear. We have examined sequential virus samples from a subtype C-infected child who had evidence of coreceptor switching.

Methods

To examine HIV-1 envelope evolution towards CXCR4 usage, env sequences were correlated with phenotypic characteristics determined by entry assays, as well as the ability to use alternative coreceptors such as FPRL1, CCR3, CCR8 and others. The value of a phenotype predictor based on V3 sequences was also assessed.

Results

Ninety-three sequences revealed 3 distinct coexistent virus lineages and only some members of one lineage evolved to use CXCR4. These lineages also had diverse alternative coreceptor patte

SUBMITTER: Coetzer M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3006070 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature