5.7 Human Immunodeficiency Virus Flashcards
1
Q
What is the structure makeup of HIV? (6)
A
- genetic material (RNA)
- attachment protein
- reverse transcriptase (enzyme)
- matrix
- capsid
- lipid envelope
2
Q
What does HIV cause?
A
AIDS - Acquired Immunodeficiency System
3
Q
How does HIV cause AIDS?
A
The HIV specifically attacks helper T cells by killing or interfering with them.
4
Q
What can AIDS cause?
A
- infections in the lungs, intestines, brain and eyes
- weight loss and diarrhoea
- death
5
Q
What test can be used to detect the presence of HIV?
A
The ELISA test
(Enzyme Linked Immunosorbant Assay)
6
Q
Why are antibiotics ineffective against HIV?
A
The wall of HIV is made from murein which the antibiotic can’t weaken to cause the cell to burst. There are also no metabolic mechanisms or cell structures for them to disrupt either.
