Gorillas and HIV

Simian immunodeficiency viruses related to HIV-1 groups O and P have been identified in western lowland gorillas in southern Cameroon.

Most recent human epidemic viral diseases, including severe acute respiratory syndrome, Middle East respiratory syndrome, Ebola, and AIDS, have had a zoonotic origin. Defining the animal reservoir of these viruses can be helpful in preventing future epidemics. Earlier work showed that HIV-1 viruses in groups M and N probably arose from chimpanzee-to-human transmission of simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIVs) in southern Cameroon (NEJM JW Infect Dis Sep 2006 and Science 2006; 313:523). A multinational team of investigators has now shown that viruses in groups O and P were likely transmitted to humans from gorillas in the same area.

Researchers tested nearly 3000 fecal samples from gorilla populations in Cameroon, Gabon, the Democratic Republ…

Reviewing Author

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Gorillas and HIV

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Reviewing Author