Commentary on Characteristics of the Different HIV-1 Risk Populations Based on the Genetic Transmission Network of the Newly Diagnosed HIV Cases in Jiangsu, Eastern China

Qi Sun^*
*Correspondence: Qi Sun, Department of Public Health, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China, Email:

About the Study

The study on "Characteristics of the different HIV-1 risk populations based on the genetic transmission network of the newly diagnosed HIV cases in Jiangsu, Eastern China" by Ying Zhou and colleagues, presents a comprehensive analysis of the HIV-1 genetic transmission network in Jiangsu province, a region with a steadily increasing HIV-1 prevalence. The study's objective is to explore the transmission kinetics and identify key risk populations for the targeted interventions, which is very crucial for the development of effective public health strategies.

The research methodology involves in the amplification of (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) HIV-1 pol sequences from plasma samples of newly diagnosed cases and the construction of a genetic network using HIV-Trace and Cytoscape Software. The network analysis reveals that, the certain HIV-1 subtypes, such as CRF01_AE, CRF105_0107, CRF55_01 B, and CRF67_01 B, are predominant in the region and are associated with specific risk factors. Notably, the study identifies age over 60 years, heterosexual transmission route, and specific HIV-1 subtypes as significant factors influencing inclusion in the genetic network.

One of the study's strengths is its focus on the molecular epidemiology of HIV-1, which provides insights into the transmission dynamics that are not always apparent through traditional surveillance methods. The identification of emerging subtypes and their association with certain risk factors is particularly important, as it highlights the need for continuous monitoring and research into the evolution of the virus.

The findings of this study have significant implications for public health policy and practice. By pinpointing key risk populations, such as individuals over 60 years of age and those engaged in heterosexual transmission, the study guides the allocation of resources towards these groups for targeted interventions. This approach aligns with the World Health Organization's goal of 95% use of combination prevention strategies and contributes to the global effort to end the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic by 2030.

Moreover, the study's identification of drug resistance nodes within the network underscores the importance of monitoring and addressing antiretroviral resistance to ensure the success of Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) programs. The presence of drugresistant strains can compromise the effectiveness of treatment and poses a threat to the overall progress made in Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) control.

However, the study also acknowledges its limitations, including the reliance on laboratory sequences and theoretical analysis, which may not fully capture the complexity of real-world transmission dynamics. Additionally, the study's findings are based on data from a single province, which may not be generalizable to other regions with different HIV-1 epidemiological patterns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the paper by Zhou, et al., provides valuable insights into the molecular epidemiology of HIV-1 in Jiangsu, China, and identifies key populations that require focused interventions. The study's approach to using genetic transmission networks to inform public health strategies is a promising direction for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) control and prevention efforts. Future research should continue to explore the genetic diversity of HIV-1 and its implications for transmission and treatment, particularly in the context of an aging population and evolving sexual transmission patterns.