Subtype-Dependent Co-receptor Tropism in Cuban HIV-1-Infected Patients: Implications for Maraviroc Treatment.

Introduction: Unlike most high-income countries where subtype B viruses predominate, the Cuban HIV-1 epidemic is characterized by a great diversity of subtypes and circulating recombinant forms. Some studies have shown that HIV variants exhibiting a preference for the CXCR4 co-receptor (X4-tropic) could have impacts on disease pathogenesis, with clinical implications for antiviral treatment plans. Determination of HIV co-receptor tropism is crucial for clinicians in deciding whether maraviroc is an appropriate antiviral.

HIV-1 Antiretroviral Resistance in Cuba, 2009-2014.

INTRODUCTION By the end of 2017, there were more than 28,000 individuals living with HIV in Cuba, over 80% receiving antiretroviral therapy, which dramatically reduces viral replication, improves immune status and decreases risk of transmission. These results could be jeopardized by emergence of HIV-1 drug resistance. In 2009, a test for HIV-1 genotypic resistance was introduced in routine clinical practice in Cuba.

Drug-resistant HIV-1 in Cuban children and their seropositive mothers.

INTRODUCTION The use of highly active antiretroviral therapy has reduced progression to AIDS and increased survival among seropositive persons; yet, appearance of resistant viruses may jeopardize these benefits. In Cuba, HIV mainly affects adults; at the end of 2009 of the 41 children infected, 25 were still alive; of these, 22 were under antiretroviral treatment. Until now, nothing was known about HIV-1 antiviral resistance and viral subtypes in the pediatric population in Cuba.