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Review Article Open Access
Volume 6 | Issue 1 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.33696/AIDS.6.051

Bending the Curve Through Innovations to Overcome Persistent Obstacles in HIV Prevention and Treatment

  • 1Al-Hadi University College, Baghdad, Iraq
  • 2Department of Biochemistry, Science Faculty, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
  • 3MLS ministry of health, Alexandria, Egypt. - MLS ASCP, USA
  • 4Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, Key Laboratory of Urban Agriculture (South) Ministry of Agriculture, Plant Biotechnology Research Center, Fudan-SJTU-Nottingham Plant Biotechnology R&D Center, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
+ Affiliations - Affiliations

*Corresponding Author

Tamer A. Addissouky, tedesoky@gmail.com; tedesoky@science.menofia.edu.eg

Received Date: February 01, 2024

Accepted Date: March 21, 2024

Abstract

Background: HIV/AIDS remains a major global public health challenge despite significant progress in treatment. New infections and HIV-related deaths persist, fueled by disparities in prevention and care access.

Purpose: This review synthesizes recent advances across key domains - from vaccine development to novel treatments to omics approaches – that collectively hold promise for ending the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

Main body: Multiple innovative HIV vaccine platforms are now in early-phase trials, including mRNA vaccines as well as conserved epitope and mosaic constructs for broader immunogenicity. Long-acting injectable antiretrovirals represent a major milestone in HIV treatment, while gene editing techniques offer future curative potential. Leveraging multi-omics data through genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics provides systems-level insights into viral persistence and new therapeutic opportunities. The gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as a mediator of HIV progression, spurring research into probiotic/prebiotic supplementation and fecal transplantation. Across these domains, integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning will likely accelerate discovery.

Conclusion: Despite past setbacks, the HIV cure effort has renewed momentum. Translating emerging tools like long-acting antiretrovirals and omics profiling into broader clinical application could bend the pandemic’s trajectory. Innovation must be paired with ensuring equitable access to maximize global impact.

Keywords

HIV, AIDS, Vaccine, Antiretroviral, Gene editing, CRISPR, Multi-omics, Microbiome, Artificial intelligence

Background

HIV/AIDS originated from multiple cross-species transmissions of simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIVs) found in African primates to humans [1]. SIVs likely jumped to humans in the early 1900s when humans hunted chimpanzees and monkeys for meat [2]. The virus further adapted in humans until the current pandemic HIV strain emerged around the 1920s. The origins of the global pandemic were traced back to the Democratic Republic of Congo around the 1920s, from where the virus spread globally along transportation routes [3].

HIV is transmitted between humans primarily through sexual contact, sharing of contaminated needles, and vertical transmission from mother to child [4]. The virus progressively impairs the immune system by attacking and destroying CD4 T cells, resulting in life-threatening opportunistic infections [5]. Without treatment, most HIV-infected individuals will develop AIDS in an average of 8-10 years after initial infection [6].

Once inside host cells, HIV converts its RNA genome into DNA using reverse transcriptase [7]. This viral DNA integrates into the host cell genome and hijacks host cell machinery to produce new virus particles. HIV exhibits high genetic variability and rapid mutation, enabling escape from host immune responses and antiviral drugs. The latent HIV reservoir formed early in resting memory CD4 T cells is a major barrier to curing infection [8]. Since its emergence, HIV/AIDS has caused over 36 million deaths globally [9]. In 2020, nearly 38 million people were living with HIV infection. While no effective vaccine exists yet, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can effectively suppress viral replication, enabling HIV-infected individuals to achieve near-normal lifespans [10]. However, only 28.2 million people currently access ART, highlighting global disparities. Continued biomedical innovation and equitable access to prevention and treatment remain essential to end the HIV/AIDS pandemic [11].

There are complex bidirectional relationships between HIV/AIDS and many other diseases [12]. HIV infection itself as well as antiretroviral therapies used to treat it can increase the risk for a number of health conditions. Likewise, several diseases can impact the progression and management of HIV [13-14]. Liver diseases such as viral hepatitis and cirrhosis are common co-morbidities with HIV [15,16]. HIV infection can accelerate the progression of liver disease, while liver dysfunction can complicate HIV treatment [17]. Those with HIV have higher rates of chronic kidney disease and faster decline in renal function. Diabetes prevalence is also increased with HIV, partly due to certain antiretrovirals [18].

Cardiovascular disease risk is elevated with HIV infection, driven by chronic inflammation and metabolic changes [19-22]. Links have also been found between HIV and some cancers, including Hodgkin lymphoma, anal, breast, cervical, colorectal, and liver cancers. The cancer-causing virus HPV may contribute to this increased risk [23,24]. HIV appears to alter susceptibility to infectious diseases like tuberculosis and bacterial pneumonia [25]. Those living with HIV are much more prone to severe illness and death from these conditions [26]. The bacteria H. pylori can cause gastrointestinal ulcers and is more common among HIV-positive individuals [27].

The research fits into the existing literature. The existing literature shows that pre-exposure Prophylaxis has been a significant advancement, providing antiretroviral drugs to individuals at high risk of HIV to prevent infection. However, adherence has been a challenge. Long-acting formulations such as injectables or implants are being researched to address the issue of daily pill adherence. Research in HIV vaccine development has been ongoing for years. Developing an effective HIV vaccine remains a challenge due to the virus's ability to mutate rapidly. Innovative approaches, such as mosaic vaccines that target multiple strains, are being explored. Technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 have shown potential in gene therapy. Scientists are exploring the possibility of using gene editing to modify immune cells, e.g., T cells, to make them resistant to HIV or to enhance the body's natural ability to fight the virus. Topical microbicides, such as gels or rings, are being investigated as a method for preventing HIV transmission during sexual activity.

These products may provide an additional layer of protection, especially for individuals who cannot negotiate condom use. Telemedicine and mHealth technologies have the potential to improve access to HIV prevention and treatment services, particularly in remote or underserved areas. These technologies can be used for remote consultations, medication adherence support, and health education. Engaging communities in HIV prevention and treatment efforts is crucial. Innovations include community-led testing and counseling, peer support programs, and community health workers who are vital in reaching populations facing barriers to traditional healthcare services. Combining HIV prevention and treatment services with other essential healthcare services such as family planning, tuberculosis screening, and mental health services can improve health outcomes and reduce the stigma associated with HIV.

This review synthesizes recent advances that collectively hold promise for bending the trajectory of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. It offers a unique emphasis on emerging tools like gene editing, immunotherapy, and microbiome-based interventions that could overcome critical roadblocks to ending AIDS. Harnessing these innovations and ensuring their equitable global implementation will be essential to capitalize on the hard-won scientific progress achieved against this devastating pandemic.

HIV/AIDS Statistics and Studies

Recent research continues to demonstrate the profound global burden of HIV/AIDS and the inequities that persist in its distribution and disease outcomes. Though the annual number of new HIV infections declined by 52% from the peak in 1997 to 2020, an estimated 1.5 million people worldwide still acquired HIV in 2020 [28]. Sub-Saharan Africa remains disproportionately impacted, accounting for over two-thirds of new global HIV infections that year [29]. Women and key populations including men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, sex workers, and prisoners carry a disproportionate share of new infections in many settings [30]. Encouragingly, the implementation and expansion of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the past two decades has led to substantial declines in HIV/AIDS-related mortality globally and in countries like Ghana and Brazil [31]. However, treatment coverage and viral suppression rates remain suboptimal, and many patients still experience delayed diagnosis and ART initiation, highlighting the need for improved HIV testing and linkage to care [32]. Many countries suffer from HIV/AIDS. Sub-Saharan Africa is disproportionately impacted. Key populations face high infection rates. Access to prevention and treatment remains limited. Cultural stigma impedes HIV response efforts. Health system weaknesses exacerbate disparities. Global solidarity and investment are needed.

Recent Advances in HIV Vaccine Development

Messenger RNA vaccines

Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines represent a promising new approach in HIV vaccine development. mRNA vaccines work by delivering mRNA encoding viral antigenic proteins into host cells, which then translate the mRNA and express the antigenic proteins to stimulate an immune response. mRNA vaccines can be quickly adapted to different viral strains and offer logistical advantages over more conventional platforms. Early research shows mRNA HIV vaccines are capable of inducing both antibody and cellular immune responses against HIV proteins. Phase 1 clinical trials are underway examining mRNA vaccines encoding HIV envelope proteins. Though still early, mRNA technology provides a versatile new tool in the HIV vaccine development arsenal [33,34]. Figure 1 depicts the multiple steps involved in mRNA vaccine function and activation of the immune system. Upon vaccine administration, mRNAs enter host cells through endocytosis or direct diffusion across the cell membrane. Ribosomes then translate the mRNA sequences into encoded protein antigens. Proteasomes process these proteins into peptide fragments that are presented on the cell surface by major histocompatibility complexes. Antigen presentation activates CD4+ and CD8+ T cells through T cell receptor binding, stimulating humoral and cellular adaptive immunity. Additionally, innate immune sensors detect the exogenous mRNAs and trigger production of proinflammatory cytokines and interferons. Overall, the figure outlines key events in mRNA vaccine-induced immune activation [35].

Conserved Epitope/mosaic vaccine approaches

Most HIV vaccine strategies have focused on generating strain-specific responses effective against matching viruses. However, HIV's high mutation rate enables rapid immune escape through changes in key epitopes targeted by strain-specific antibodies. Conserved epitope vaccines aim to focus immune responses on sites of vulnerability on the HIV envelope conserved across viral strains. This may enable broader protection. Mosaic vaccines similarly incorporate gene fragments from diverse HIV strains to provide wider coverage. Preclinical studies demonstrated promising, broad neutralizing antibody responses using computationally optimized conserved epitope and mosaic immunogens. These approaches are now advancing into early stage human clinical testing [36].

Figure 1. Mechanisms of mRNA vaccine function and immune system activation [35].

Novel adjuvant formulations

Adjuvants enhance vaccine immunogenicity and are critical components of subunit vaccines. Alum has been the most widely used adjuvant but is suboptimal for vaccines needing potent cellular immunity, like HIV vaccines. Newer adjuvants aim to drive stronger, more durable T and B cell responses. Formulations using TLR agonists show excellent safety and immunogenicity in non-human primates and humans. Lipid-based nanoparticles delivering vaccine antigens and adjuvants also offer promise through sustained antigen release and lymph node targeting. Their biodegradability and potential for scalable manufacturing make novel adjuvants appealing HIV vaccine components [37]. Table 1 summarizes emerging HIV vaccine platforms in clinical development.

Table 1. Emerging HIV vaccine platforms in clinical development.

Vaccine Platform

Key Features

Stage of Testing

mRNA vaccines [33-35]

Rapid production, versatile, robust cellular and humoral immunity

Phase 1 trials ongoing

Conserved epitope/mosaic vaccines [36]

Optimized bioinformatically for broad coverage, focus immune responses on vulnerable sites

Early human trials

Novel adjuvant formulations [37]

Stimulate potent, durable immune responses

Safety and immunogenicity demonstrated in humans

Emerging HIV Treatment Strategies

Long-acting antiretroviral therapies

Current antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV requires daily oral administration, presenting adherence challenges. Long-acting injectable and implantable ART formulations that only require monthly or less frequent administration are in development. Cabotegravir and rilpivirine long-acting injections have demonstrated virologic suppression comparable to daily oral ART in clinical trials. Other long-acting ART agents like lenacapavir and islatravir are also showing promise. By reducing dosing frequency, long-acting ART aims to improve adherence, decrease reservoir seeding, and bolster immune recovery [38,39].

Gene editing approaches (e.g. CRISPR)

Gene editing with CRISPR/Cas9 allows precise modification of host DNA to confer HIV resistance in CD4 T cells and hematopoietic stem cells. Early stage human trials of ex vivo CRISPR approaches demonstrated feasibility and safety, with treated cells persisting for months. However, challenges remain around scalability, delivery, off-target effects, and adequate efficiency. Combining CRISPR with other emerging technologies like mRNA or gene therapy vectors may help overcome current limitations to durability [40].

Therapeutic vaccines

Rather than prevent initial infection, therapeutic vaccines aim to enhance immune control of HIV post-infection to reduce viral reservoirs and enable ART-free remission. Vaccine strategies in development include vectored vaccines, mRNA vaccines, dendritic cell-based approaches, and combination immunotherapy. The BCN 02 therapeutic vaccine showed sustained control of viral load after ART interruption in early human testing. While no therapeutic vaccine is approved yet, the concept continues to be pursued, including in combination with other cure strategies [41-43].

Immune-based therapies

Immune modulators and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) also show therapeutic promise by enhancing antiviral immunity or directly targeting HIV. mAbs like ibalizumab bind HIV's CD4 binding site, blocking viral entry. The TLR7 agonist vesatolimod induces antiviral cytokines and activated HIV transcription. interleukin-7 increases CD4 counts and reinvigorates exhausted T cells. While not curative alone, immunotherapies may play a supplementary role in achieving post-treatment control of HIV [44,45].

Nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery

Nanoscale drug delivery systems, such as polymeric nanoparticles, lipid nanoparticles and nanosuspensions, allow manipulated delivery and improved biodistribution of antiretroviral drugs. Nanoformulations of rilpivirine, dolutegravir, and efavirenz have exhibited sustained release, cell/tissue targeting, and favorable pharmacokinetics in preclinical studies. While still early in development, nanotechnology offers the potential to overcome current ART limitations related to systemic toxicities, adverse effects, and suboptimal pharmacokinetics [46,47]. Table 2 summarizes key points of each of the five HIV treatment approaches described.

Table 2. Novel HIV treatment approaches.

Category

Specific Strategies

Key Features

Long-acting ART [38,39]

- Cabotegravir/rilpivirine injections

- Lenacapavir injection

- Islatravir implant

- Monthly or less frequent dosing

- Improves adherence

- More constant drug levels

Gene editing [40]

- CRISPR/Cas9

- Confers HIV resistance

- Ex vivo modification of CD4 T cells

Therapeutic vaccines [41-43]

- mRNA vaccines

- Dendritic cell vaccines

- Reduces viral reservoir

- Enhances immune control

Immunotherapies [44,45]

- Broadly neutralizing mAbs

- Immune modulators

- Inhibits viral entry/replication

- Restores immune function

Nanotechnology [46,47]

- Polymeric nanoparticles

- Lipid nanoparticles

- Manipulated drug delivery

- Improved pharmacokinetics

The Microbiome in HIV Pathogenesis and Treatment

Gut microbiota changes with HIV infection

Advances in DNA sequencing have enabled detailed characterization of the gut microbiota in HIV infection. Studies consistently demonstrate that HIV infection dramatically alters the gut microbial composition, leading to reduced microbial diversity, abundance, and functionality. Specific taxa depleted in the HIV gut microbiota have immunomodulatory and barrier protective properties. Microbiome disruption likely contributes to the chronic immune activation and inflammation underlying HIV progression. Antiretroviral therapy only partially normalizes the microbiota, suggesting persistent dysbiosis [53].

Probiotics/prebiotics as adjuvant therapy

Supplementation with probiotics or prebiotics aims to restore beneficial microbes depleted in HIV infection. Small clinical trials found certain probiotic strains reduced immune activation, inflammation, and microbial translocation markers among HIV patients on ART. Vaginal probiotics also decreased vaginal dysbiosis and inflammation in HIV-positive women. However, results vary across different probiotic formulations. Further research on optimal species, strains, dosing, and delivery methods is warranted to translate microbiome-targeted interventions into clinical care [54,55].

Fecal microbiota transplantation

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from healthy donors more comprehensively restores microbial communities. Case studies demonstrated FMT from HIV-negative donors into HIV patients temporarily enriched microbial diversity and anti-inflammatory taxa. Larger clinical trials are underway to formally evaluate immunologic and virologic effects of FMT in HIV infection. Critical questions remain around donor selection, recipient preparation, delivery routes, and long-term safety. Addressing these knowledge gaps could position FMT as a novel adjuvant to augment ART [56].

Integration of Traditional Medicine

Herbal medicines from various cultures

Traditional herbal medicines have long been used to treat symptoms related to HIV/AIDS across cultures worldwide. African medicinal plants like Hypoxis hemerocallidea (African potato) and Sutherlandia frutescens demonstrate immunomodulatory properties in vitro. Chinese herbs, including formulas like yi ai ping, also have putative mechanisms against HIV through effects on viral entry, replication, and immune function. The Indian Ayurvedic system utilizes herbs like Tinospora cordifolia as immune boosters for HIV patients. While promising, most traditional remedies require more rigorous study to confirm safety and efficacy [57-62].

Acupuncture, meditation, and other practices

Beyond herbs, traditional healing systems have incorporated practices like acupuncture, yoga, meditation, and massage into HIV care models. Small studies suggest acupuncture may reduce pain, fatigue, and gastrointestinal symptoms in people with HIV on ART. Yoga and mindfulness meditation appear to improve psychological health, coping, and quality of life. Therapeutic massage may also benefit psychological wellbeing, though robust clinical data is lacking. More research is needed on optimal protocols and integration with conventional treatment [63].

Safety, efficacy, and drug interactions

The inclusion of traditional medicine therapies into HIV care requires careful evaluation of safety, efficacy, and interactions with ART. Many herbal products remain poorly characterized and can have adverse effects or interfere with ART metabolism through effects on drug metabolizing enzymes like CYP450. However, traditional medicine can play an important role in patient-centered care models if practitioners skillfully screen for harmful herb-drug interactions and only recommend evidence-based therapies that safely complement ART. Ongoing research, open provider-patient communication, and appropriate regulation are critical [64,65].

Leveraging Multi-Omics Approaches

Genomics for host factors and viral resistance

Genomic analyses have furthered understanding of host factors influencing HIV acquisition, disease progression, and treatment outcomes. Genome-wide association studies identified specific polymorphisms associated with viral control and elite controller status. Comparative genomics of HIV-resistant animal species is uncovering novel restriction factors. Sequencing also detects minor viral variants harboring drug resistance mutations missed by standard genotyping. As sequencing costs decrease, integrating host and viral genomics into routine care may guide therapy [48].

Transcriptomics for biomarkers and drug targets

Analyzing global gene expression by RNA sequencing provides insights into mechanisms of HIV replication, latency, reactivation, and pathogenesis. Transcriptomic profiling identified host biomarkers of inflammation, immune activation, and reduced immune function that are associated with and predict disease progression. Analyses also illuminate how HIV modulates host pathways, uncovering dependencies that may inform new therapeutic targets. Single-cell transcriptomics offers additional depth by deconvoluting responses within complex cell mixtures [49].

Proteomics for functional insights

Mass spectrometry-based proteomics defines functional profiles by quantifying thousands of host and viral proteins simultaneously. Comparative studies revealed global protein-level dysregulation reflecting increased inflammation, coagulation, and apoptosis in HIV infection. Proteomics also elucidated virion composition and assembly, interactions of viral proteins with host machinery, and how viral protein abundance changes with treatment. As proteomics workflows and databases mature, proteome-wide scanning may uncover new prognostic markers and therapeutic opportunities [50].

Metabolomics for monitoring disease progression

Metabolomic analyses detect metabolic perturbations associated with HIV infection and treatment effects. Marked changes were observed in amino acid, lipid, and energy metabolism. Machine learning models applied to metabolomic data could stratify patients by disease severity. Integration with other omics layers (multi-omics) provides a systems view of HIV pathogenesis not discernible from individual datasets alone. While still an emerging technology, metabolomics offers substantial potential for monitoring disease progression and treatment response [51,52]. Table 3 illustrates multi-omics approaches to analyze HIV.

Table 3. Multi-Omics Approaches to Analyze HIV.

Omics Layer

Technology

Insights Generated

Genomics [48]

DNA sequencing

Host factors, viral resistance

Transcriptomics [49]

RNA sequencing

Disease biomarkers, viral effects on host genes

Proteomics [50]

Mass spectrometry

Functional profiles, virion composition

Metabolomics [51,52]

Mass spectrometry

Monitoring disease progression and treatment response

Artificial Intelligence for HIV Cure

AI for novel drug design

Artificial intelligence methods such as deep learning and neural networks have shown promise for accelerating and improving the HIV drug discovery process. AI can help screen millions of compounds to identify promising drug candidates by predicting activity and toxicity [66-69]. It can also model protein dynamics and interactions to design drugs that can better target the virus. Startups and major pharmaceutical companies have begun using AI for HIV drug design with some early successes. However, more research is still needed to fully realize the potential of these technologies [70-73].

Machine learning to analyze diverse omics data

Machine learning is being applied to analyze complex HIV omics data sets including genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics data. By detecting patterns in these high-dimensional datasets, machine learning can uncover new insights into HIV persistence and pathogenesis [74,75]. Researchers have used these techniques to identify biomarkers of reservoir size and immune dysfunction. Machine learning has also shown promise for discovering novel cellular pathways and host-virus interactions. Integrating diverse omics data with advanced algorithms offers a new avenue for understanding and overcoming viral reservoirs [76,77].

AI to optimize treatment regimens

AI and reinforcement learning methods are now being leveraged to optimize HIV treatment strategies. Researchers have developed AI models to predict treatment outcomes and make dynamic treatment decisions for HIV patients. These personalized models can recommend optimal timing for switching drug regimens based on a patient's specific viral genetics and history. They can also suggest additional interventions such as immunotherapy to minimize the viral reservoir. Applying AI to HIV treatment data continues to be an active area of research for achieving sustained virologic response [74].

Conclusions

The HIV/AIDS pandemic persists as a global public health crisis, disproportionately impacting resource-limited regions. However, the review highlights recent biomedical advances holding promise to bend the trajectory of the epidemic. Innovative vaccine platforms like mRNA and mosaic antigens could enhance breadth and durability of protection. Long-acting antiretroviral formulations represent a breakthrough for adherence challenges. Approaches such as gene editing and immune therapies offer potential curative strategies, though obstacles around delivery and off-target effects remain. Multi-omics profiling illuminates new prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The microbiome emerges as a modifiable factor influencing HIV pathogenesis. While no single solution ensures epidemic control, synergistically translating these tools through rigorous clinical testing and equitable global access could transform the HIV/AIDS landscape. However, major barriers persist around financing, infrastructure, and political commitment required for widespread implementation, especially in heavily affected regions. Strengthening health systems and tackling social drivers like stigma remain crucial priorities alongside continued biomedical innovation.

Recommendations

To fully leverage these scientific advances and accelerate efforts to control and eventually end the HIV/AIDS pandemic, the following steps are recommended:

- Rapidly advance the most promising biomedical prevention strategies like mRNA vaccines through late-phase clinical testing and delivery optimization to determine field effectiveness.

- Expand access to new potent ART regimens like long-acting injections globally, with a focus on hardest-hit regions and populations.

- Support further research into curative approaches like CRISPR gene editing and immunotherapy, but also implement them cautiously and ethically.

- Incorporate emerging omics profiling and AI-based treatment optimization into routine HIV care to individualize prevention and treatment.

- Elucidate optimal probiotic/prebiotic formulations and fecal transplant protocols through rigorous clinical trials to translate microbiome findings.

- Promote evidence-based integration of traditional medicine where safe and effective; screen for herb-drug interactions.

- Foster collaborative, multidisciplinary research across public and private sectors to accelerate the most impactful ideas from lab to clinic.

List of Abbreviations

HIV: Human Immunodeficiency Virus; AIDS: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; SIV: Simian Immunodeficiency Virus; ART: Antiretroviral Therapy; mRNA: Messenger RNA; TLR: Toll-Like Receptor; MHC: Major Histocompatibility Complex; mAbs: Monoclonal Antibodies; CRISPR - Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats; Cas9: CRISPR Associated Protein 9; FMT: Fecal Microbiota Transplantation; HPV: Human Papillomavirus; HBV: Hepatitis B Virus; HCV: Hepatitis C Virus; CKD: Chronic Kidney Disease; CVD: Cardiovascular Disease; GI: Gastrointestinal; Mtb: Mycobacterium tuberculosis; H. pylori: Helicobacter pylori; AI: Artificial Intelligence; PLHIV: People Living with HIV

Declarations

Ethics approval and consent to participate

Not Applicable.

Consent for publication

Not Applicable.

Availability of data and materials

All data is available, and sharing is available as well as publication.

Competing interests

The authors hereby declare that they have no competing interests.

Funding

The corresponding author supplied all study materials. There was no further funding for this study.

Authors' contributions

The authors completed the study protocol and were the primary organizers of data collection and the manuscript's draft and revision process. Tamer A. Addissouky wrote the article and ensured its accuracy. All authors contributed to the discussion, assisted in designing the study and protocol and engaged in critical discussions of the draft manuscript.

Acknowledgements

The authors thank all the researchers who have made great efforts in their studies. The authors would like to thank the Deanships of all the participating Universities for supporting this work. Moreover, we are grateful to the editors, reviewers, and readers of this journal.

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