HIV STRUCTURE

Himanshu Gupta
Group : 627
HIV
 HIV is a retrovirus belonging to the Lentivirus genus
with a lipid envelope studded with glycoproteins.
 Its structure includes an envelope derived from the host
cell membrane, a viral matrix, and a capsid enclosing
two copies of the viral RNA genome and various viral
proteins.
MUTATION RATE AND
VARIABILITY
 HIV has a high mutation rate due to the error-prone
nature of its reverse transcriptase enzyme, aiding in
immune evasion and drug resistance.

 Target Cells and Immunodeficiency:

 The virus primarily targets CD4+ T cells, weakening the immune
system and leading to susceptibility to opportunistic infections and
cancers.
ENTRY MECHANISM
 Entry of HIV into host cells involves binding of the
viral envelope glycoprotein gp120 to CD4 receptors and
a co-receptor (CCR5 or CXCR4).
 This binding triggers conformational changes leading
to fusion of viral and host cell membranes and release
of viral contents into the cell.
INTRACELLULAR PROCESS
 Inside the host cell, viral RNA is reverse transcribed
into DNA by reverse transcriptase, which is then
integrated into the host cell's DNA by integrase.
 Integrated viral DNA, known as a provirus, serves as a
template for the production of new viral RNA and
proteins.
 Assembly of new viral particles occurs in the host cell cytoplasm,
where viral RNA and proteins are synthesized.
 Mature viral particles bud from the host cell membrane, acquiring
an envelope containing viral glycoproteins during the process.
 Long-term Infection and Drug Resistance:
 HIV's ability to integrate its genetic material into the host cell's
DNA allows it to establish long-term, chronic infection.
 The virus's high mutation rate enables it to evade host immune
responses and develop resistance to antiretroviral drugs.
 Disease Progression:
 HIV infection progresses through various stages,
culminating in AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency
Syndrome), characterized by severe immunodeficiency.
 Importance of Understanding HIV Biology:
 Understanding HIV's structure and biological properties is
crucial for developing effective prevention strategies and
therapeutic interventions.
 THANK YOU