AIDS is caused by a human retrovirus that kills:
AIDS is caused by a human retrovirus that kills:
Select an option to attempt
Correct Answer: Option C
Explanation
HIV target cells:HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus, a lentivirus/retrovirus) specifically targets cells expressing the CD4 glycoprotein as its primary receptor:• CD4+ T helper lymphocytes (Tᴴ cells): The primary target; HIV uses CD4 as receptor and CCR5/CXCR4 as co-receptors for entry.• Macrophages and dendritic cells also express CD4 and can be infected.Consequences of HIV infection:• Persistent replication in CD4+ T cells → their gradual depletion.• When CD4+ count falls below 200 cells/μL → AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).• Loss of T-helper cells impairs both humoral and cell-mediated immunity → opportunistic infections.Answer: HIV targets and kills CD4+ T-helper lymphocytes.