HIV is one of those viruses that constantly varies and, consequently, shows multiple genetic expression of itself.

This process, called mutation, allows for changes in sensitivity to the agents used in its control.

Up to now two main groups of agents have been used against the virus. These agents were developed to act at key spots in the process of virus multiplication. HIV does many things in its entrance to the special lymphocytes, called CD4 cells that it targets. First, it binds to the CD4 cell and then it enters the cell then its RNA (ribonucleic acid) by an enzyme called "reverse transcript-tase." Once the DNA mirror of the RNA has been written, it has to be "integrated" into the nucleus. The altered nucleus now begins to produce messenger RNA, which goes to a subunit.

According to Adventist World Magazine, the strand is cut into individual virus particles by an enzyme called "protease."

The two current groups of anti-HIV medications have become agents that block either the reverse transcription the protease enzymes. The medications are used at least three at a time.

This is so, hopefully, combat a given strain of HIV even should it develops resistance to one the medications.

Of course, the medications have taken faithfully, at the time and in the combination ordered.

To failed to do this results in the virus escaping from control and developing resistance. Persons who take medicine as directed have been seeing great success in their treatment, and many can live more than 20 years without developing AIDS.

Why patients diagnosed with HIV is not immediately treated with the medications

A person may successfully withstand HIV for many years, using their natural immunity.

Since HIV is so readily able to develop resistance, holding to the medication until the person really needs it means that several years go by without the virus having a chance to develop resistance. When the antivirals are started, they are given in specific combinations; actually they are so effective they sometimes lower the viral load scarcely detectable levels.

Is there any new hope for people who are on antiviral treatment and starting to have problems with viral resistance?

Although two main groups of anti-retroviral exist; the reverse transcriptase and the protease inhibitors, two classes of medications make up each group.

Resistance is usually not to the whole group, but to individual medications.

Even though the journal of American medical Association has reported on new HIV drugs currently being tested.

These medications differ from the drugs in the other two groups and classes which represent breakthroughs.

They are being tested in large studies and represent two new strategies. The one medication aims at blocking an enzyme called "integrase" which plugs the viral DNA into the cell’s DNA. By doing this, the DNA made from viral RNA does not get incorporated into the cell nucleus.

The second group of drugs is called "entry inhibitors." They act like "Locks" on the cell "doors" through which the virus enters the lymphocytes. So far the results are very encouraging though once again these medications do not stop the process completely, and are not by any means a cure for HIV/AIDS.

Story: Ebenezer Debrah (Reporter, Health Digest News)