What type of cell does HIV primarily infect?

HIV primarily infects Helper T-cells, which are also known as CD4 T-cells. These cells play a crucial role in the immune system by facilitating the activation and function of other immune cells, such as B cells and cytotoxic T cells. HIV targets these cells specifically because the virus uses the CD4 protein on the surface of these cells as a key receptor for entry.

Once HIV enters the Helper T-cell, it replicates and ultimately leads to the destruction of these cells. The depletion of CD4 T-cells is a hallmark of HIV infection and significantly impairs the immune response, making the body more susceptible to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. This characteristic of HIV’s preference for Helper T-cells is central to understanding the pathophysiology of HIV/AIDS and the consequent immunodeficiency that arises from the infection.