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Multiple Choice
HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, only infects certain cells within the immune system. This is because __________.
A
the virus is not very mobile within the body and only comes into contact with a limited number of immune cells
B
other cells produce toxins that destroy the virus before infection can take place
C
the virus gets into all cells, but the viral RNA is immediately destroyed in all but a small number of immune system cells
D
infection requires the presence of a specific DNA sequence that is only present in the genome of certain immune system cells
E
the virus binds to specific receptors that are only present on certain immune cells
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that HIV is a virus that specifically targets the immune system, particularly certain types of cells within it.
Recognize that viruses, including HIV, require specific receptors on the surface of host cells to attach and gain entry.
Identify that HIV primarily infects CD4+ T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells, which have the necessary receptors for HIV binding.
Note that the specific receptor HIV binds to is the CD4 receptor, along with a co-receptor such as CCR5 or CXCR4, which are present on these immune cells.
Conclude that the specificity of HIV infection is due to the presence of these receptors on certain immune cells, allowing the virus to attach and enter these cells, leading to infection.