Topic 2 - HIV And AIDS Flashcards
1
Q
What is HIV?
A
Human Immunodeficiency virus is a retrovirus that attack the immune system, specifically targeting helper T cells. It can lead to AIDS if left untreated. HIV weakens the immune system destroying CD4 cells, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases.
2
Q
What is a retrovirus?
A
Uses reverse transcriptase enzyme to transcribe its RNA genome into DNA.
3
Q
How is HIV transmitted?
A
- Exchange of bodily fluids
- Sexual intercourse
- Sharing of needles
- Blood transfusions
- From child to mother during childbirth or breastfeeding
4
Q
A
5
Q
What is the structure of HIV?
A
- reverse transcript enzyme
- capsid
- Viral envelope
- Attachment proteins to allow HIV to bind to host cells
6
Q
What is an attachment protein on HIV?
A
- facilitate binding to specific receptors on host cells such as CD4 receptors on T cell. Initiating the process of viral entry.
7
Q
How does HIV replicate?
A
- infects helper T cells and utilises the cells machinery to replicate its RNA genome.
- Infected cells produce new virus particles that can infect other cells
- Reverse transcript is catalyses the conversion of viral RNA into DNA
8
Q
What are helper T cells and why is HIV virus detrimental to them?
A
- Type of lymphocyte that plays a central role in coordinating the immune response by activating immune cells
- HIV targets and infects these cells leading to immune dysfunction
- Results in the depletion of helper T cells therefore the ability for the immune system to mount an effective response against pathogens decreases
9
Q
What is AIDS?
A
- Acquired immunity deficiency syndrome
- advanced sage of HIV and is characterised by severe immune suppression and increase susceptibility to infection
