Distribution of the CCR5 gene 32-base pair deletion in Israeli ethnic groups

The discovery of inhibition of HIV-1 by selected chemokines and their recep tors instills hope in AIDS researchers, especially because a 32-bp deletion in the chemokine receptor CCR5 (Delta 32-CCR5) provides resistance to HIV infection. A recent report found that the highest Delta 32-CCR5 frequency i s among Ashkenazi Jews (20.93%). In the present study, we have determined b y PCR the allelic frequency of Delta 32-CCR5 in 520 individuals representin g a spectrum of ethnic groups Living in Israel. The samples were obtained f rom the Israeli National Laboratory of Genetic Diversity. Our results showe d that Ashkenazi Jews, as to be expected, have the highest frequency (10.19 %), yet not significantly higher than that which has been reported for whit es of European decent. Other ethnic groups, North African Jews, non-Jews, M iddle Eastern Jews, and Ethiopian Jews, gave allelic frequencies of 2.08, 1 .35, 1.15, and 0, respectively. Thus, the Delta 32-CCR5 mutation is found i n Jews with the same allelic frequency as that found for residents of their countries of origin. Therefore, it appears that the Delta 32-CCR5 allele h as been introduced into Jewish communities world wide through intermarriage and genetic drift.