A new highly virulent HIV variant discovered in the Netherlands

The Covid-19 pandemic has taught us something: how much mutations can change the face of a virusmaking it both more virulent and more contagiousas was the variant Delta compared to older variants. This phenomenon does not only concern the SARS-CoV-2. Scientists at Oxford University have now confirmed the existence of a new variant of HIV. This discovery is reported in Science.

The VB variant, more virulent and contagious

It was discovered in the Netherlands in 17 HIV-positive patients and members of the BEEHIVEE project, which collects HIV samples in Europe and Uganda. The new variant, called the VB variant, has different characteristics from other strains of HIV. Individuals infected with the VB variant have a viral load 3.5 to 5.5 times higher than the others. Their T4 cells decline twice as fast, exposing them to risk of developing AIDS much earlier. Finally, the VB variant also appears to be more transmissible than HIV strains. Fortunately, he responds well to available antiretroviral treatments.

The scientists extended their search beyond the BEEHIVEE project and examined a cohort of 6,700 HIV-infected patients, among whom 92 additional cases of the BV variant were identified, bringing the total to 109 cases in the Netherlands alone.

By analyzing the genetic material of the VB variant, which has many mutations, scientists from the University of Oxford believe that it emerged in the Netherlands between the years 1980-90. It would then have spread rapidly in the 2000s, before being slowed down by the generalization of antiretroviral treatments in the 2010s. The VB variant would not have emerged because of the treatments, but despite their general use. Further studies are needed to understand the origins of its increased virulence and transmissibility.