The frequency of mutation in CCR5 gene among Koreans

To better understand a role of the Delta 32 allele of the CCR5 gene in HIV- 1 transmission and disease progression, we determined the CCR5 Genotypes wi thin several groups of Koreans. Amplification of DNA from each subject was achieved with polymerase chain reaction, using the CCR5 specific primer pai r, which flanks the 32 bp deletion. The 1.2 kb coding sequences of CCR5 wer e examined to see the possible effects of CCR5 polymorphism. All of the 339 healthy, HIV-uninfected individuals had no mutation in the CCR5 gene. All of the 115 HIV-1-infected patients including II long-term non-progressors ( LTNPs) and 18 discordant spouses were also wild homozygotes. No variation i n the 1.2 kb CCR5 coding sequence was found in 5 LTNPs and 5 discordant spo uses. In conclusion, the 32 bp deletion mutant is rarely present in Koreans . Our data suggest that factors other than the CCR5 coding sequences may al so play a role in the resistance to HIV infection.