Molecular transmission network analysis of newly diagnosed HIV-1 infections in Nanjing from 2019 to 2021

Abstract

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the molecular transmission networks and transmitted drug resistance (TDR) patterns among individuals newly diagnosed with HIV-1 in Nanjing. Methods Plasma samples were collected from newly diagnosed HIV patients in Nanjing between 2019 and 2021. The HIV pol gene was amplified, and the resulting sequences were utilized for determining TDR, identifying viral genotypes, and constructing molecular transmission networks. Logistic regression analyses were employed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics associated with molecular transmission clusters. Results A total of 1161 HIV pol sequences were successfully extracted from newly diagnosed individuals, each accompanied by reliable epidemiologic information. The analysis revealed the presence of multiple HIV-1 subtypes, with CRF 07_BC (40.57%) and CRF01_AE (38.42%) being the most prevalent. Additionally, six other subtypes and unique recombinant forms (URFs) were identified. The prevalence of TDR among the newly diagnosed cases was found to be 7.84% during the study period. Employing a genetic distance threshold of 1.50%, the construction of the molecular transmission network resulted in the identification of 137 clusters, encompassing 613 nodes, which accounted for approximately 52.80% of the cases. Multivariate analysis indicated that individuals within these clusters were more likely to be aged 60 years or older, unemployed, possess a baseline CD4 cell count greater than 200 cells/mm3, and infected with the CRF105_0107 subtype (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the analysis of larger clusters revealed that individuals aged 60 years or older, peasants, those without TDR, and individuals infected with the CRF105_0107 subtype were more likely to be part of these clusters. Conclusions The findings of this study highlight the elevated risk of transmission and spread of the HIV epidemic associated with the CRF105_0107 subtype in Nanjing. Additionally, the high prevalence of TDR among newly diagnosed individuals is a cause for concern. It is crucial to implement targeted interventions that take into account the molecular transmission clusters identified in this study to effectively control the HIV epidemic in Nanjing. Further research should be conducted to explore and develop specific strategies tailored to address the unique challenges posed by these clusters. By doing so, we can mitigate the impact of HIV and reduce its transmission within the population of Nanjing.