Knock-out IFNL4 gene variant is associated with protection from sexually transmitted HIV-1 infection

The IFNL4 knock-out allele (rs368234815-TT) is associated with spontaneous and IFNA-dependent cure of HCV. The role of this polymorphism in susceptibility to HIV-1 infection is controversial. This study is aimed to assess the association of this knock-out IFNL4 gene variant and sexually transmitted HIV-1 infection. 228 HIV-1 positive and 136 HIV-exposed seronegatives were investigated for their association with IFNL4 rs368234815 genotypes. The IFNL4 G functional allele is associated to increased susceptibility to HIV-1 infection through sexual route OR: 2.1 95% CI (1.2-3.6), P=0.004. A meta-analysis including an IDU population suggests a codominant mode of inheritance of this risk factor OR: 2.0 95% CI (1.3-3.2), P=0.001.