Biological and Socio-Medical Studies to Establish Anti-AIDS/HIV Strategies in Sub-Saharan Countries, Especially Zambia

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HIV-1 infection is most prevalent in sub-Saharan African continent. To investigate AIDS/HIV in these area from the virological as well as socio-medical aspects, we have carried out several studies.First, we isolated many HIV-1 strains from the infected individuals in Lusaka, Zambia located in southern Africa. The viruses were analysed for genotypes and phenotypes. We showed that viruses prevalent in these area were predominantly subtype C, and 66% of them contained 3 NF-kB binding sites in the LTR. The latter fact may explain at least partially the reason why this type of HIV-1 is disseminated over the other types in Zambia. We then were able to establish several infectious subtype C clones for the first time. Since clade C is the most predominant and important HIV-1 subtype, our vaccine strategy should focus on this type among others. Infectious clade C HIV-1 clones obtained in the present studies will be a powerful molecular tool to develop clinically available AIDS vaccines.Assuming the AIDS/HIV problems in the near future, it is apparently difficult for the sub-Saharan countries including Zambia to clear these hurdles with their own capacities alone utilizing power for technology, man and finance. Thus, it is expected for these countries to efficiently exploit the financial support from international donors including WHO and UNAIDS in reforming and empowering their health and medical strategies. On the other hand, we foreign donors should share information within donors and with the Zambian government, and participate in decision making events to contribute to this local and global matter.