Vubil A, Jani VI, Mabunda N, Ismael N, Ramalho D, Morgado MG and Couto-Fernandez JC
In order to evaluate the genetic diversity of HIV-1 subtypes and transmitted drug resistance (TDR) mutations in northern Mozambique, we analyzed 120 plasma specimens obtained from drug naive blood donors candidates, who tested positive during routine HIV screening in three blood banks in that region. The genotyping for HIV-1 resistance was performed using Trugene Genotyping SystemTM. HIV-1 genetic subtypes were defined based on entire PR and partial RT gene regions, using REGA HIV-1 Subtyping Tool version 3.0 algorithm and confirmed by phylogenetic inference, using NJ algorithm. The majority of genotyped samples were classified as HIV-1 subtype C (80.0%), followed by subtype A1 (10.5%), subtype D (3.2%) and subtype G (2.1%). The inter-subtype recombinant forms (A1/C, A1/D and C/D) were identified in four participants (4.2%). TDR mutations associated with nucleoside and nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (K219E, G190A, K101E and K103N) were observed in five (5.3%) subjects.
Although a large proportion of HIV-1 subtype C was observed, non-C and recombinant forms together correspond to 20% in this study, which is different from what was described in central and southern regions, where subtype C was almost 100%. However, the profile mutations from this study correlate with the ARVs used both for first line schemes and PMTCT in Mozambique. This data reinforces the necessity of continuous surveillance of HIV-1 diversity, TDR and routes of spread, through inner cities of Mozambique to understand better the dynamics of the HIV-1 epidemic and support national public health policies in the country.
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