Are subtype differences important in HIV drug resistance?

► HIV-1 diversity has given rise to numerous subtypes and recombinant forms. ► New subtyping tools can accurately identify the most important HIV-1 variants. ► Public drug resistance databases are useful resources to trace the evolution of drug resistance in different subtypes. ► HIV-1 subtype genetic variation can influence the development of drug resistance and the susceptibility to certain antiretroviral drugs. ► Appreciation of subtype differences is important in the development of new drugs and in the formulation of antiretroviral strategies.