Next Generation Sequencing reveals a high frequency of CXCR4 utilizing viruses in HIV-1 chronically infected drug experienced individuals in South Africa

The entry of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) into target cells is mediated by the virus ’ envelope glycoproteins. Specifically, gp120 interacts with the CD4 receptor and co-receptors, either CCR5 or CXCR4 [1]. Viruses with the ability to use CCR5 are classified as R5 viruses, those that use CXCR4 are classified as X4 viruses, while those that use both co-receptors are referred to as dual tropic (R5X4 viruses) [2]. R5X4 viruses are further classified as dual-R (R5+X4, a mixture of R5 and X4 viruses with R5 existing as majority and X4 as minority) or dual-X (R5X4+ a mixture of R5 and X4 viruses with X4 existing as majority and R5 as minority) [3–5].
Source: Journal of Clinical Virology - Category: Virology Authors: Source Type: research