Objective: To identify subtypes of human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) strains and their distribution, infection sources, and the trends of HIV infection in Jiangsu province.
Methods: Anticongulated bloods from 46 infected persons were collected to separate previrus DNA. HIV-1 env genes were then amplified by nested-PCR and sequenced for their C2-V3 region so as to identify subtypes. The analysis of consensus sequence, genetic distance and phylogenetic tree were conducted with GCG software.
Results: By the end of 2001, there had been six subtypes of HIV-1 strains identified in Jiangsu province: A, B, B', C, D and E. The predominant subtypes were C (accounting for 40.48%) and B' (accounting for 38.10%). Subtype C accounted for 86.67% among injecting DUs while subtype B' accounted for 91.67% among commercial blood donors and receivers.
Conclusion: Subtype B'among commercial blood donors was brought to Jiangsu from neighboring provinces. The outbreak of HIV-1 infection among local DUs was caused by subtype C from Xinjiang province. Findings from HIV/AIDS molecular epidemiologic study suggest that it is challenging for Jiangsu to treat patients, apply vaccine, prevent and control AIDS in the future.