The world's first map of human resistance to HIV has been constructed

On October 29, 2013, scientists from the Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL) in Lausanne, Switzerland and the University Hospital Center of Vaud (UNIL-CHUV) used a supercomputer to analyze the genome of thousands of HIV virus strains, and constructed the first map of human resistance to AIDS. The completion of this map will bring light to the search for new therapeutic targets for AIDS and the realization of individualized treatment strategies. The results of the first AIDS map were published in eLife magazine on October 29.
The human immune system is constantly evolving strategies against HIV. Unfortunately, the genome of HIV virus is also rapidly changing at the rate of one million mutations per day. This fight of the immune system will leave its traces in the virus - genetic mutations show how the virus reacts to the host's attack. Researchers analyzed various HIV virus strains from 1071 seropositive individuals. They cross-combined more than 3000 potential mutations in the virus gene with more than 6 million mutations in the patient genome. Using supercomputers, they studied all possible combinations and determined the corresponding relationship with patients. Finally, it is possible to obtain the most complete global overview of human genes and their impact on HIV resistance so far.
"It makes us not only better understand our own anti-attack mechanism, but also reveal how the virus changes itself to adapt to our defense mechanism. We now have a real database that can tell us which human genetic mutations will induce which mutations in the virus." Amalio Telenti, co-author of the paper and UNIL-CHUV researcher, said.
This research is of great significance, and new therapies can be developed based on human natural defenses, especially those that lead to the reduction of virus replication. In addition, by analyzing the genome of HIV infected individuals, we can develop personalized targeted treatment for the genetic strengths and weaknesses of patients, which brings hope for the treatment of AIDS.