CLINICAL PROFILES AND PHYLOGENETIC ANALYSIS OF HIV-1 IN NEWLY DIAGNOSED PATIENTS FROM PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study explored the clinical profiles, and phylogenetically analysis of HIV-1 positive patients compared to a control group. The hematological analysis revealed significantly lower hemoglobin (HB) levels in HIV-1 positive individuals (11.31±0.63 g/dL) compared to the control group (11.84±0.57 g/dL). White blood cell counts (WBCs) were also notably reduced in HIV-1 positive patients (6.52±2.01x10³mm³) compared to the control group (7.85±0.88 x10³mm³), with reference values ranging from 4-11 x10³mm³. Platelet counts (PLTs) exhibited a significant decrease in HIV-1 positive patients (179.21±27.24 x10³mm³) compared to the control group (307.03±36.21 x10³mm³). Biochemical analysis indicated elevated levels of liver enzymes in HIV-1 positive patients, with ALT levels at (63.3±12.3 U/L), AST levels at (52.7±9.5 U/L). Additionally, renal function markers demonstrated increased levels in HIV-1 positive patients, including urea at 41.1±7.4 mg/dL and creatinine at 1.7±0.3 mg/dL compared to the control group. Furthermore, RNA analysis via 1% TAE agarose gel electrophoresis revealed distinctive bands in high viral load samples, providing insights into the quality and integrity of extracted RNA. The electrophoretic separation of three Fragments (F1, F2, and F3) of the surface glycoprotein GP-120 of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) was visually represented through 1.5% TBE agarose gel electrophoresis. The graphical representations facilitated the analysis of specific characteristics of GP-120 across various samples, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the viral genetic variations. This integrative approach, combining hematological, biochemical, and genetic analyses, offered a comprehensive perspective on the clinical and molecular aspects of HIV infection, providing valuable insights for further research and potential therapeutic interventions.