TREX1 531C/T Polymorphism and Autoantibodies Associated with the Immune Status of HIV-1-Infected Individuals

Autoimmune diseases can develop during HIV-1 infection, mainly related to the individual's immune competence. The study investigated the association of the TREX1 531C/T polymorphism and antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in HIV-1 infection and the time of antiretroviral therapy (ART) used. Cross-sectional and longitudinal assessments were carried out in 150 individuals, divided into three groups: ART-naive, 5 years and 10 years on ART; ART-naive individuals were evaluated for 2 years after initiation of treatment. The individuals' blood samples were submitted to indirect immunofluorescence tests, real-time PCR and flow cytometry. The TREX1 531C/T polymorphism was associated with higher levels of TCD4(+) lymphocytes and IFN-a in individuals with HIV-1. Individuals on ART had a higher frequency of ANA, higher levels of T CD4(+) lymphocytes, a higher ratio of T CD4(+)/CD8(+) lymphocytes and higher levels of IFN-a than therapy-naive individuals (p < 0.05). The TREX1 531C/T polymorphism was associated with better maintenance of the immune status of individuals with HIV-1 and ANA with immune restoration in individuals on ART, indicating the need to identify individuals at risk of developing an autoimmune disease.

Automated summary

This study investigated the association between TREX1 531C/T gene polymorphism and antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in HIV-1 infection, as well as the duration of antiretroviral therapy (ART). The results showed that the TREX1 531C/T gene polymorphism was associated with elevated levels of TCD4(+) lymphocytes and IFN-a in individuals with HIV-1. Individuals on ART had a higher frequency of ANA, higher levels of T CD4(+) lymphocytes, a higher ratio of T CD4(+)/CD8(+) lymphocytes, and higher levels of IFN-a. This indicates the importance of identifying individuals at risk of developing autoimmune diseases.