Oxford University researchers Identified a new highly virulent HIV strain in the Netherlands. The strain has been lurking around for decades and is not affected by modern treatments. Here’s all you need to know.
Highly virulent HIV strain discovered
On Thursday Researchers from the University of Oxford disclosed the presence of a highly virulent HIV strain. Reported in Science, the project Beehive is aimed at better understanding the links between genetics and disease severity. “We want to understand the molecular basis of this: which mutations in the virus’s genetic sequence are associated with a higher viral load in untreated infection and thus a more rapid progression to AIDS,” they explain. The study is based on the databases of HIV sequences obtained from people across eight European nations and Uganda.
The study revealed that the new “VB variant” of HIV had 3.5 to 5.5 times more viral load in the blood samples than the alternative variants. The researchers also noticed a faster deteriorating immune system in infected patients. However, the recovery was similar for both the VB variant and other HIV variants. According to Chris Wymant, the lead author and epidemiologist, there is no reason for worry or alarm.
What is the VB vraiant?
As per genetic analysis, the VB variant of HIV is believed to have emerged in the Netherlands around the late 1980s and early 1990s. However, it started declining in 2010. Initially, Wymant’s team found 16 people carrying the strain in the Netherlands and one each from Belgium and Switzerland. About 109 people are carrying the variant but, there could be more. “The [VB] virus is going from person to person without evolving much, which is indicative that that process is happening faster than usual. So they’re more infectious,” stated Wymant. However, the reason for its infectious nature is unknown.
“Finding a new variant is normal, but finding a new variant with unusual properties is not- especially one with increased virulence,” he added. “The findings provide further support for frequent testing for those at risk and rapid treatment initiation when diagnosed. We would have been in a very different situation if we had not had those treatments,” said Caroline Sabin from University College London. Moreover, it is important to remember that HIV is a constantly evolving virus. However, over 500 mutations distinguish the VB strain from others.