Genetic markers on HIV-1 gp120 C2-V3 region associated with the expression or absence of cognitive motor complex in HIV/AIDS.

In the CNS, HIV-1 causes cognitive motor complex (CMC) in about 30-40% of patients. To explain CMC physiopathology: disequilibrium of cytokine networks, calcium influx, free radicals and toxic effects by HIV-1 have been evoked. Neurotropic mutants have not been unambiguously proven nor 'variants' of HIV-1 with biological properties that could cause CMC. By computerized analysis of gp120 C2-V3 subtype B sequences from retroviral databases, and applying stringent criteria, we found: (i) mutations specific for CMC; (ii) mutations associated with the absence of CMC (N-CMC); (iii) mutations with specificity for the geographical region of origin, and finally (iv) shared mutations representing 'hot spots.' We suggest that the capability to cause or not to cause CMC may be present in the virus prior to infection. In the future, these markers could be used to guide treatments with novel neuroprotective regimes.