Genomic Characterization of Two Novel Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Recombinant Forms (CRF01_AE and B) in Men Who Have Sex with Men in Hebei, China

Mutation and recombination are key mechanisms in the adaptation, spread, and genetic diversity of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1. We identified two novel unique recombinant forms (URFs) from two persons living with HIV-1, both infected through homosexual contact in Hebei, China. Phylogenetic and recombinant analysis based on the near full-length genome (NFLG) sequences revealed that they originated from CRF01_AE and B. NFLG sequencing revealed complex recombinant patterns in both samples, indicating ongoing recombination and co-infection in men who have sex with men (MSM). The emergence of novel URFs underscores the complexity of the HIV-1 epidemic among MSM and highlights its evolving molecular diversity and epidemiological implications.