Global Molecular Epidemiology of HIV: Understanding the Genesis of AIDS Pandemic

摘要

Global dissemination of the Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) represents a dramatic and deadly example of recent genome emergence and expansion. Since HIV-1 group M began its expansion in human population roughly 70 years ago (in early twentieth century), it has been diversifying rapidly, now comprising a number of different subtypes andcirculating recombinant forms (CRFs). Molecular epidemiological method has been useful tool to analyze the origin of HIVs and to track a course of global HIV dissemination. It could also provide the information critical to prevention and future vaccine strategies. In this chapter, we describe the classification and distribution of HIV genotypes and the biological and public health implications of genetic variability of this deadly pathogen.