Evolving molecular HIV clusters revealed genotype-specific dynamics in Guangzhou, China (2008-2020).

Objectives: This study investigated the genotype-specific dynamics of molecular HIV clusters (MHCs) in Guangzhou, China, aiming to enhance HIV control.
Methods: HIV pol sequences from people with HIV (PWH) in Guangzhou (2008-2020) were obtained for genotyping and molecular network creation. MHCs were identified and categorized into three types: emerging, growing, or stable. Clustering rates, proportions of cluster types, and members within each type were calculated and their trends were assessed using joinpoint regression.
Results: Among 8395 PWH, the most prevalent HIV-1 genotypes were CRF07&#95;BC (39.7%) and CRF01&#95;AE (32.6%). The genotype composition has been stable since 2012 (Ps > 0.05). The overall clustering rate was 43.3%, with significant variations across genotypes (P < 0.001), indicating genotype-specific transmission fitness. Significant declines in overall and genotype-specific clustering rates toward the end of 2020 (Ps < 0.05), potentially offer support for HIV control efforts in reducing local infections. The continuously increasing proportions of stable clusters and the gradually decreasing proportions of emerging and growing clusters (either Ps < 0.05 or Ps > 0.05) suggest a trend toward stable molecular network structure. However, growing clusters exhibited CRF55&#95;01B, CRF07&#95;BC, and CRF59&#95;01B dominance that indicate their priority for interventions.
Conclusion: The evolving MHCs highlight the genotype-specific cluster dynamics, providing fresh insights for enhanced prevention and control strategies.
Competing Interests: Declarations of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this article.
(Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)