Virology, immunology, and clinical course of HIV infection

摘要: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the cause of AIDS, was second retrovirus to be associated with human diseases. The unique life cycle retroviruses involves reverse transcription their RNA DNA, which is incorporated into host's genes. HIV, despite its small genome, contains multiple structural and regulatory genes, latter controlling rate viral replication. Experimental vaccines are aimed at inhibiting binding HIV host cells. Azidothymidine (AZT) other nucleoside analogues inhibit transcriptase enzyme. induces profound specific immunosuppression by depleting helper lymphocytes that bear cluster determinant 4 (CD4, formerly T4). clinical course infection mainly determined number CD4 in blood. A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach patient management can reduce adverse medical, psychosocial, economic impact AIDS.