HIV RECEPTORS Meaning and
Definition
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HIV receptors refer to specific molecules on the surfaces of human cells that facilitate the entry and infection of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). These receptors are essential for the virus to attach to and penetrate into host cells, initiating the process of viral replication and subsequent destruction of the immune system.
The primary receptor involved in HIV infection is called CD4, which is a protein found on the surface of certain immune cells, particularly T-helper cells. CD4 acts as the initial binding site for the virus, allowing it to attach and gain entry into these cells. However, CD4 alone is not sufficient for successful HIV infection. Co-receptors, such as CCR5 or CXCR4, are also required for the virus to fully enter and replicate within the host cell.
CCR5 and CXCR4 are chemokine receptors, which are proteins involved in immune responses. CCR5 serves as the primary co-receptor for transmission of HIV during early infection, while CXCR4 is usually associated with later stages of the disease. These co-receptors allow the HIV envelope protein to bind to the host cell membrane, triggering viral fusion and ultimately leading to the release of viral genetic material into the host cell.
Understanding the interaction between HIV and its receptors is crucial for developing antiretroviral therapies and preventive strategies. Targeting these receptors can hinder HIV entry into host cells, potentially preventing or inhibiting the progression of the viral infection.
Common Misspellings for HIV RECEPTORS
- giv receptors
- biv receptors
- niv receptors
- jiv receptors
- uiv receptors
- yiv receptors
- huv receptors
- hjv receptors
- hkv receptors
- hov receptors
- h9v receptors
- h8v receptors
- hic receptors
- hib receptors
- hig receptors
- hif receptors
- hiv eeceptors
- hiv deceptors
- hiv feceptors
- hiv teceptors
Etymology of HIV RECEPTORS
The word "HIV receptors" is a scientific term that combines the acronym HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and the term "receptor". The etymology of the acronym HIV is as follows:
- "Human" refers to the species that the virus primarily infects, which is Homo sapiens.
- "Immunodeficiency" refers to the virus's ability to compromise the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to other infections and diseases.
- "Virus" is a Latin word meaning "poison" or "slimy liquid", indicating its nature as an infective agent.
As for the term "receptor" in this context, it comes from the Latin word "recipere", meaning "to take back" or "to receive".
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