Characterization of the HIV-1 subtypes present in Cordoba (Argentina) from nearly the beginning of the infection, using the POL and ENV genes

Abstract

Objective: In the present study we characterize, using a retrospective approach, the HIV-1 infection in Córdoba, Argentina, by determining the viral subtypes circulating in the period 1986-2001. Methods: The pol and env genes were analyzed using two different approaches: 1) comparing the sequences from Córdoba with those of pure subtypes and circulating recombinant forms of the HIV-1 M group; 2) subdividing the sequences into pure-subtype data sets (avoiding the effects of recombination) to determine if the subtypes from Córdoba have a single or multiple geographic origins. Results: The first approach revealed that eighteen strains were subtype B, seven B/F1, one C and one F1. Only two of the B/F1 corresponded to the CRF12_B/F1, previously described for Argentina; the remaining B/F1 sequences could be considered different forms of URF_B/F1. The Phylogenetic results of the second approach suggest that in Córdoba subtype B would have multiple geographic origins, while subtypes F1 and C would have been introduced directly from Brazil or indirectly from Buenos Aires. Conclusions: The great subtype variability indicates that the HIV-1 infection in Córdoba was complex since its very beginning. Our results also reveal the close contact of people of this city, through tourism and commercial activities, with those from Buenos Aires and Brazil.

Keywords

• infección de VIH-1
• Córdoba, Argentina
• subtipos de VIH-1
• análisis filogenéticos
• cepas recombinantes inter-subtipo