HIV-1 drug resistance and genetic diversity in people with HIV-1 in Cape Verde

Abstract

Objectives: To characterize the genetic diversity and drug resistance profiles of people with HIV-1 failing ART in Cape Verde (CV).

Design: Cross-sectional study conducted between January 2019 and December 2021 in 24 health centres on the islands of Santiago and São Vicente.

Methods: The HIV-1 pol gene was sequenced in individuals with a detectable viral load. HIV-1 genetic diversity was determined by phylogenetic analysis. Drug resistance mutation patterns and resistance phenotypes were estimated using the Stanford algorithm.

Results: Viral load was detected in 73 of 252 (29%) enrolled participants and sequencing data were produced for 58 (79%) participants. CRF02 AG strains predominated (46.5%), followed by subtype G (22.4%). Most patients (80%) had mutations conferring resistance to nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) (67%), nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (55%), integrase inhibitors (10%) and/or protease inhibitors (7%) used in Cape Verde, a significant increase compared with a study conducted in 2010-2011. The most common mutations were M184V/I (43%), K103N/S (36%) and G190A/S (19%). NNRTI resistance was associated with younger age and exposure to two or more drug regimens.

Conclusion: The HIV-1 epidemic in Cape Verde is mainly driven by CRF02_AG and subtype G. Resistance to NNRTIs and/or NRTIs is highly prevalent and resistance to LPV/r and DTG is emerging. Our results support the use of DTG-based first-line ART and protease inhibitor-based regimens for patients with virological failure, but emerging resistance to LPV/r and DTG is a concern. Continued monitoring of drug resistance is essential to ensure adequate healthcare for PWH in Cape Verde.