HIV destroys CD4 cells.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) specifically targets and infects CD4 cells, which are a type of white blood cell crucial for the immune system. These cells, also known as T-helper cells, play a vital role in coordinating the immune response to fight off infections. The process by which HIV destroys CD4 cells is as follows:
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Attachment and Entry: HIV attaches to the CD4 receptor on the surface of the CD4 cell. After binding, the virus enters the cell.
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Replication: Once inside, HIV uses the CD4 cell's machinery to replicate itself. The virus converts its RNA into DNA and integrates it into the cell's DNA. The infected cell then starts producing new HIV particles.
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Cell Death: After producing numerous copies of itself, the HIV virus kills the CD4 cell. This cell death occurs through several mechanisms, including direct viral killing and programmed cell death (apoptosis) triggered by the infection.
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Cycle Continues: The newly created HIV particles are released from the destroyed CD4 cell to infect other healthy CD4 cells, repeating the cycle.
Over time, the continuous destruction of CD4 cells by HIV weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. This advanced stage of HIV infection is known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Without treatment, the depletion of CD4 cells can be fatal.
