INFLUENCE HLA-DRA GENE RS8084 POLYMORPHISM AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF HIV1 INFECTION ON THE EXPRESSION OF INTERFERON-STIMULATING GENES MX2, IFNM1, ADAR1

AbstractIn individuals infected with HIV, the influence of rs8084 polymorphism suggests that certain alleles may slow disease progression at an older age, allowing people with specific genotypes to maintain higher CD4 levels even if they are infected later in life. This may indicate a more effective activation of the immune response with age.     This study analyzes the distribution of HIV-1 patients by disease stages depending on age groups, as well as changes in CD4% levels and the expression of the MX2, IFNM1, and ADAR1 genes in infected patients.     A total of 143 patients diagnosed with HIV-1, aged 14 to 66 years, were examined. The control group consisted of 67 practically healthy individuals aged 15 to 57 years, who were unrelated, had no clinical signs of HIV infection, and had no hereditary predisposition to the disease.     The results show that the highest number of infections occurs in the third stage of the disease (symptomatic phase) among young individuals aged 14–35 years. At later stages of the disease, CD4% levels significantly decrease, indicating the progression of immune deficiency. A correlation was also identified between the HLA-DRA genotype and CD4% levels, highlighting the potential for a personalized approach to HIV treatment. Additionally, the study revealed a significant increase in the expression of the MX2, IFNM1, and ADAR1 genes in HIV-infected patients, confirming the activation of antiviral mechanisms in response to infection.     The study demonstrated that HIV-1 infection is associated with significant changes in the immune system, as evidenced by a decrease in CD4% levels and an increase in the expression of key antiviral genes such as MX2, IFNM1, and ADAR1. Given the role of genetic factors, such as HLA-DRA polymorphism, in disease progression, the importance of a personalized treatment approach is emphasized.