Viral Infections · Pathology

In HIV infection, the depletion of which cell type is the primary driver of immunodeficiency?

  1. CD8+ Cytotoxic T-cells
  2. CD4+ Helper T-cells
  3. Natural Killer (NK) cells
  4. Plasma cells
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Correct answer: CD4+ Helper T-cells

The HIV envelope protein gp120 binds to the CD4 molecule on T-cells and macrophages. The subsequent destruction of CD4+ T-cells cripples the adaptive immune response, leading to AIDS.

Difficulty: Medium Question 11 of 20

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