Genetic analysis of HIV type 1 strains in Bujumbura (Burundi): Predominance of subtype C variant

In order to characterize the HIV-1 strains circulating in Burundi, 18 blood samples from nontreated patients were collected in Bujumbura and viral DNA and RNA were sequenced in the env and pol genes, respectively. The phyloge netic analysis of the V3 coding region of HIV-1 gp120 revealed that 83% (15 /18) of the isolates belonged to the C subtype. The RT and protease coding regions of the pol gene also clustered with subtype C. A potential A/C reco mbinant between the protease (subtype A) and the RT and V3 coding regions ( both subtype C) was identified. Drug resistance mutations were not detected in the RT gene. However, mutation M36I, associated with resistance to rito navir and nelfinavir, was found in 17 of 18 Burundi isolates. In conclusion , this first characterization of HIV-1 strains circulating in Burundi confi rms the dramatic emergence of subtype C in East Africa.