cell HIV targets:
neutrophils
B cells
cytotoxic T cells
helper T cells
HIV targets:
1. Neutrophils: Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the innate immune response. However, HIV does not primarily target neutrophils. Neutrophils are not generally infected by HIV and do not play a significant role in the viral replication process.
2. B cells: B cells are a type of white blood cell involved in the adaptive immune response. While HIV can infect B cells, it does not efficiently replicate within them. However, HIV can have indirect effects on B cells by causing dysfunction in the immune system, leading to impaired B cell function and reduced production of antibodies.
3. Cytotoxic T cells: Cytotoxic T cells (also called CD8+ T cells) are a type of T cell that play a critical role in the immune response against viral infections. HIV specifically targets and replicates in cytotoxic T cells, leading to their destruction and depletion. CD8+ T cell depletion is one of the hallmark characteristics of HIV infection and is associated with disease progression.
4. Helper T cells: Helper T cells (also called CD4+ T cells) play a vital role in coordinating and regulating the immune response. HIV primarily targets and infects helper T cells by binding to the CD4 receptor present on their surface. The virus enters the cells, replicates within them, and eventually leads to the destruction of helper T cells. The depletion of CD4+ T cells weakens the immune system, resulting in increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and the development of AIDS.