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HIV compromises the immune system mainly by infecting?
HIV infects and compromises the immune system by targeting and destroying CD4+ T cells, which are important white blood cells responsible for coordinating the immune response against infections. This leads to a decrease in the body's ability to fight off infections and diseases.
While CD4+ T cells are the main target of HIV, the virus can also infect and damage other immune cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells. This further weakens the immune system and makes the body more susceptible to infections.
HIV replicates by inserting its genetic material into the DNA of the infected CD4+ T cells using an enzyme called reverse transcriptase. This allows the virus to make multiple copies of itself and spread to other cells through the bloodstream.
If left untreated, HIV can severely damage the immune system over time, leading to a condition known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This makes the body more vulnerable to opportunistic infections and can eventually result in death.
HIV can be managed and treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART), a combination of medications that can effectively suppress the virus and prevent it from replicating. This allows the immune system to recover and reduces the risk of developing AIDS and other complications.