HIV

HIV - human immunodeficiency virus - is actually two viruses, HIV 1 and HIV 2, which are members of the family of viruses called lentiviruses. These are so called retro viruses, because rather than making RNA(Ribonucleic Acid) from DNA(Deoxyribonucleic Acid) in order to replicate their genetic material, they start off with RNA and use an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to make DNA. The virus binds to receptors, called CD4 receptors, which are present on cells called T-helper lymphocytes, part of our immune system. Over a period of time, depending on the amount of virus present and the response that the body mounts, the cells will become depleted and the signs of immunodeficiency (see Acquired immune deficiency syndrome described in the Immunity section) will appear. HIV is transmitted in body fluids - either blood or seminal fluid. There are anti-viral agents, some of which are specifically aimed at the function of the reverse transcriptase enzyme, which block the replication of the virus at different stages of the cycle. Using a number of drugs together, called triple therapy, can delay progression of disease, and other drugs are currently being developed. The number of cases worldwide would be much reduced if the number of condoms used were increased.
 

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