Immunogenetic variations in HIV serotypes in patients attending military hospital, Warri, Nigeria

Abstract Background Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria, characterized by the coexistence of diverse serotypes, mainly HIV-1 and HIV-2, each presenting unique therapeutic challenges. Understanding host immunogenetic variations is essential to improve treatment approaches. Objectives This study aimed to identify immunogenetic variations associated with HIV-1 and HIV-2, explore the relationship between specific Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) alleles and HIV susceptibility, assess cytokine gene polymorphisms in disease progression, and investigate implications for personalized treatment strategies among patients at a military hospital in Warri, Nigeria. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 300 HIV-infected individuals (200 HIV-1 and 100 HIV-2 patients) over 12 months. Genomic DNA was extracted from venous blood samples, and immunogenetic analyses included HLA typing, cytokine gene polymorphism assessments (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10), and chemokine receptor genotyping (CCR5, CXCR4). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results HIV-1 patients exhibited a predominance of HLA-B35 and HLA-C07 alleles, while HLA-B*27 was less frequent. The TNF-α − 308G/A A allele was significantly associated with HIV-1 ( p < 0.05). Among HIV-2 patients, the G allele of IL-10−1082A/G was more prevalent, suggesting a role in replication control. The CCR5-∆32 variant was absent in this population. Conclusion This study underscores the influence of host genetic factors on HIV susceptibility and progression, with the TNF-α (−308G/A) polymorphism significantly associated with HIV-1 susceptibility, offering insights for tailored treatment approaches and informing public health strategies in Nigeria.