Summary
Highlights
HIV uniquely targets helper T-cells, which are crucial for the immune system's response. The virus attaches, enters the cell, and converts its RNA into DNA, integrating it into the host cell's genome. This forces the cell to produce more HIV proteins and genetic material, leading to the creation of new viruses that infect other cells.
Initially, the immune system fights back with various mechanisms. Inside infected cells, antiviral proteins called restriction factors try to stop virus production and escape. Outside, B-cells produce neutralizing antibodies to block new infections, while killer T-cells and natural killer cells destroy infected cells by injecting enzymes that trigger self-destruction.
HIV counter-attacks by disabling antiviral proteins and constantly mutating to evade immune detection. Over time, the immune system becomes exhausted: killer T-cells stop responding, and the body loses its ability to produce new helper T-cells to replace those destroyed. This leads to a severe decline in helper T-cell numbers.
Eventually, the body becomes immunodeficient, a condition known as AIDS, making it vulnerable to otherwise harmless infections. While there is currently no cure for HIV, antiretroviral drugs can help the immune system recover and control the virus, allowing individuals to live longer, healthier lives.