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 CRF01AE 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.
Cao et al. (Tue,) studied this question.