HIV/AIDS Study Guide Vocabulary

Flashcards covering HIV/AIDS origins, biology, testing, treatment, and social aspects.

SIV (Simian Immunodeficiency Virus)

Source of HIV; transmitted from primates to humans.

Species Jump

Cross-species transmission likely occurred via bushmeat practices.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)

Retrovirus that attacks the immune system.

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome)

Advanced stage of HIV infection with severe immune suppression.

AIDS Deniers

Fringe group rejecting HIV as cause of AIDS; disproven by evidence.

Retrovirus

RNA virus using reverse transcriptase to integrate into host DNA.

gp120

Binds CD4 and co-receptors (CCR5 or CXCR4).

gp41

Facilitates fusion with host cell.

Reverse Transcriptase (RT)

Enzyme that converts RNA to DNA.

CD4+ T Cells

Primary target of HIV; depletion leads to immunodeficiency.

R5/X4 Tropism

Virus uses CCR5 (early) or CXCR4 (late) as co-receptors.

ART Naive

No prior ART.

ART Experienced

Has taken ART; drug resistance may develop.

Window Period

Time between infection and detectable antibodies (2-12 weeks).

Rapid ELISA

Detects HIV antibodies.

Rapid Antigen Test

Detects p24 protein (earlier detection).

Western Blot

Confirmatory test.

CD4 Count / Viral Load

Monitor immune function and virus replication.

HAART

Combination therapy preventing resistance.

PreP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)

Prevents infection if taken consistently.

MTCT (Mother-to-Child Transmission)

Near 100% prevention with ART.

Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies (BnAbs)

Effective against multiple HIV strains; in clinical trials.

Elite Controllers

Suppress virus without ART; possible genetic/immune factors.