CD4 lymphocytes-How does HIV replicate

Question

Describe briefly about CD4 lymphocytes? Write down the relationship between these cells and HIV? How does HIV replicate?

Answer 1

CD4 lymphocyte is T helper lymphocytes which present in plasma membrane receptor proteins named CD4. CD4 lymphocytes are the cells which HIV infects and in that the virus replicates. HIV has proteins in its capsule which bind to CD4 receptors of lymphocytes. Through that bond the virus fuses with cell membrane and its content (RNA, reverse transcriptase, protease, and so forth.) penetrates in the cytoplasm and the viral replication procedure begins. HIV RNA is then converted in DNA by reverse transcriptase. The new DNA is inserted in the genetic material of lymphocyte with the assist of enzymes named as integrases. By transcription and translation this DNA commands synthesis of proteins necessary for assemblage of new viruses. Long polypeptides are therefore produced and then fragmented in proteins and viral enzymes by enzyme protease. So new HIV viruses are assembled and break the cell membrane to gain circulation.