Commercial Genetic test for slow progression

[NYCguy]

Fee like I read something about this a while ago.  I have to admit, it sounds a little like a money-making scheme, since the test doesn't really have any impact on treatment.  Anyone else heard about this or have thoughts on it?

http://www.medindia.net/news/HIVmirror-LLC-Launching-Breakthrough-Genetic-Product-for-HIV-Positive-Consumer-21679-1.htm

HIVmirror, LLC Launching Breakthrough Genetic Product for HIV Positive Consumer
 
PHILADELPHIA, HIVmirror LLC, a Philadelphia-based company offering HIV positive consumers the latest in confidential DNA testing, is announcing the launch of their innovative HIV progression test, HIVmirror(TM). This affordable, easy-to-use product, with its user-friendly Web site (http:www.hivmirror.com), empowers modern consumers and gives a unique insight into their genetic code and its role in their potential HIV disease progression. 


HIVmirror(TM) is a revolutionary scientific test that assesses an individual's DNA for CCR5-Delta32 (known as Delta 32) and CCR2-64I, two genetic variations that are known for slowing the process in which HIV becomes AIDS. HIVmirror(TM) is available for consumer use in the privacy of their own home with easy-to-use instructions and confidential results. Until now, this test was only available to participants in formal research studies.

According to the results shows the information about how a person's genes may effect HIV disease progression and more specifically, if their gene types are associated with slowing the progression of HIV infection to AIDS. This can provide insight to how their body is reacting to HIV and simply offer a peace of mind.

HIVmirror(TM) is based on published NIH funded studies that made associations between genetic variations and the course of HIV-1 infection. Scientists studied over 4000 people with HIV-1 infection observing who developed AIDS. Participants underwent special genetic testing determining if they carried the CCR5-Delta32 or the CCR2 64I genetic variations that are suspected to affect the progression of HIV.
 

[Central79]

I think there are so many factors that influence disease progression. CCR5 deletions are an important one, but by no means the only one or even a factor that accounts for the majority of variability seen between different people.

There's something about human beings that loves taking a test, that might explain or reassure. I've thought about it - because, just like when I get a good CD4 result, this too might make me feel better about the future. It's like those people who pay for private CT scans periodically - it's reassuring to know you don't have any huge cancers anywhere!

But like you said, it's not really going to inform treatment, it's just marketed to that most universal human attribute: hope. As such, it's pretty clever.

Matt

(who doesn't have a spare 50 quid)

[redhotmuslbear]

For those with an interest in genetic geneology, I found that Family Tree DNA offers a CCR5 delta-32 test for only USD20 if one has an extracted sample with them or adds the test to a new order for Y-DNA and mitochondrial RNA profiling.  I have been using FTDNA to extend my known family history to the 1740s on North America, by connecting with men who exactly match a certain number of Y alleles, including another Gay man who shares our 8th-great-grandfather....and the resemblance between us is freaky.

So, sure, in total the testing would be more than HIV mirror..and it's not going to produce impactful data for most people.... but if you're a non-progressor who's never had the test or someone with an interest in ancestry, it may be worth the expense.

Cheers,
David