Which of the following correctly describes the fusion process of HIV with the T cell? A) The virus releases its RNA into the bloodstream. B) The virus uses a specialized enzyme to... Which of the following correctly describes the fusion process of HIV with the T cell? A) The virus releases its RNA into the bloodstream. B) The virus uses a specialized enzyme to drill into the cell. C) The virus fuses its outer layer with the T cell membrane. D) The virus enters the cell through endocytosis.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the correct description of how HIV fuses with T cells, which involves understanding the mechanisms of viral entry into host cells.
Answer
The virus fuses its outer layer with the T cell membrane.
The virus fuses its outer layer with the T cell membrane.
Answer for screen readers
The virus fuses its outer layer with the T cell membrane.
More Information
HIV enters a T cell by fusing its lipid membrane with the membrane of the host cell. This fusion is facilitated by proteins on the HIV virion, like gp120 and gp41, which interact with receptors on the T cell surface (CD4 and co-receptors like CCR5 or CXCR4).
Tips
A common mistake is confusing HIV fusion with other processes like viral entry by endocytosis or direct injection of genetic material, which may be seen in other types of viral infections.
Sources
- HIV Replication Cycle | NIAID - niaid.nih.gov
- HIV Life Cycle - HHMI BioInteractive - biointeractive.org
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