Molecular Insights into Comorbidities in People Living with HIV: A Big Data Approach

Recent research conducted by the Center for Individualized Infection Medicine (CiiM) has shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the high prevalence of non-AIDS-related comorbidities among individuals with HIV. As part of the large-scale 2000HIV cohort study in the Netherlands, scientists utilized a comprehensive multi-omics approach—analyzing gene expression, protein levels, metabolic data, and immune response strength—to uncover the biological foundations of conditions such as cardiovascular and liver diseases, as well as cancer.

The study revealed numerous molecules and pathways that are associated with these comorbidities, providing valuable insights into how chronic inflammation and immune system dysregulation accelerate aging and disease progression in people with HIV. Notably, the team identified markers that could predict immune response intensity, which correlates with inflammation levels and the development of related health issues.

A significant finding was the discovery of a specific variant of the NLRP12 gene, key in regulating inflammation, which appears to predispose individuals to heightened inflammatory states, regardless of HIV status. This insight suggests that genetic factors contribute to disease susceptibility beyond viral infection.

The researchers emphasize that combining data across different molecular levels allowed them to construct a detailed molecular map. This resource can guide future studies aiming to develop targeted therapies and improve patient management. The full dataset and analysis tools are freely accessible for further scientific exploration.

Led by Prof. Yang Li, the team highlighted the importance of understanding these molecular interactions to combat the accelerated aging and comorbidity burden among HIV-positive populations. Their pioneering multi-omics approach is a breakthrough in HIV research, offering new avenues for personalized medicine.

This study, published in Nature Medicine, represents a significant step toward unraveling the complex biological networks involved in HIV-associated comorbidities and sets a foundation for novel therapeutic strategies.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-comorbidities-hiv-big-reveals-molecular.html