Infiltration/Mutation

The Increase of HIV

The HIV virus attacks the human immune system. They infiltrate the enzyme Reverse Transkriptase which converts RNA into DNA, The virus RNA builds itself into the RNA of the host cell. Where it can remain inert for many years.

The HIV virus tricks the infected host cell, when the cell receives instructions to destroy foreign bodies (viruses, bacteria or HIV virus) it produces and releases new instances of the HIV virus. These new viruses use up the nutrients in the host cell, when the cell dies thousands of HIV viruses are released into the sytem and infect new immune cells.

Mutation

Translation errors as the HIV virus combines with the host cell RNA cause new HIV variants. These variants have different characteristics from the original HIV and can lead ot speedy onset of AIDS and death. Several million variations of the virus have been observed in a single infected human. This variability allows the HIV virus to adapt to its environment and means that the virus quickly becomes resistant to medications. Hence the failure to develop a vaccine or a cure.

HIV-Building material in the host cell

HIV is incorporated into the host cell:

• HIV docks with the CD4 receptor on the host cell.
• HIV inflitrates the host cell RNA.
• Reverse Transkriptase in the host cell coverts RNA into DNA.
• The Integrase builds the viral DNA into the host cell DNA

Formation of HIV:

• HIV-DNA is converted to RNA.
• Protease build new HIV (on budding).
• HIV releases itself from the host cell.

Source: HIV/Aids – Aktuell (Dr. med. Kurt April)
©Translation: AIDS Information Switzerland
Last updated: November 2009