EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -HIV binds to the CD4 molecule on the surface of helper T-cells and replicates within them. This results in destruction of CD4+ T-cells and leads to a steady decline in this population of T-cells.

Detailed explanation-2: -Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) specifically attacks Helper T cells. Without an adequate supply of Helper T cells, the immune system cannot signal B cells to produce antibodies or Cytotoxic T cells to kill infected cells.

Detailed explanation-3: -HIV enters its genetic information into helper T cells to make copies of itself. When this happens, the helper T cells die. This severely disrupts the immune response. Low levels of helper T cells mean killer T cells and other white blood cells do not receive as much information about pathogens in the body.

Detailed explanation-4: -The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) chiefly targets CD4 cells. A reduced number of these cells and a change in the CD4:CD8 ratio are signs of HIV infection. The CD4:CD8 ratio helps your physician judge disease activity and your response to treatment.

Detailed explanation-5: -There have been reports of HIV infection of CD8 T cells isolated from AIDS patients.