Upregulation of PTPRC and Interferon Response Pathways in HIV-1 Seroconverters Prior to Infection

Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) exposed seronegative (HESN) individuals may have unique characteristics that alter susceptibility to HIV-1 infection. However, identifying truly exposed HESN is challenging. We utilized stored data and biospecimens from HIV-1 serodifferent couple cohorts, in which couples' HIV-1 exposures were quantified based on unprotected sex frequency and viral load of the partner with HIV-1. We compared peripheral blood gene expression between 15 HESN and 18 seroconverters prior to infection. We found PTPRC (encoding CD45 antigen) and interferon-response pathways had significantly higher expression among individuals who went on to become seropositive and thus may be a signature for increased acquisition risk. We analyzed transcriptional signatures associated with HIV acquisition in an African cohort with quantified HIV exposure. PTPRC (CD45 antigen) and interferon-response pathways, both markers of immune activation, had significantly higher expression among individuals who went on to acquire HIV.

Automated summary

In individuals exposed to HIV-1, higher expression of PTPRC (CD45 antigen) and interferon-response pathways may indicate an increased risk of acquiring HIV-1.