Question 1

Which of the following best describes HIV?

Accepted Answer

A retrovirus that primarily targets CD4+ T cells

Question 2

What is the primary function of reverse transcriptase in the HIV life cycle?

Accepted Answer

To convert viral RNA into DNA

Question 3

Which of the following best defines AIDS?

Accepted Answer

A condition characterized by severe immunodeficiency due to HIV infection

Question 4

Which viral protein is responsible for integrating HIV DNA into the host genome?

Accepted Answer

Integrase

Question 5

What is the main reason why antiretroviral drugs are administered in combination (as in HAART)?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the development of drug resistance

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the structure of the HIV genome?

Accepted Answer

A single-stranded RNA genome encoding structural, enzymatic, and accessory proteins

Question 7

Which step in the HIV replication cycle involves the fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane?

Accepted Answer

Entry

Question 8

Why does HIV preferentially infect CD4+ T cells?

Accepted Answer

Because CD4+ T cells express the CD4 receptor and co-receptors required for viral entry

Question 9

Which of the following is NOT a function of HIV accessory proteins?

Accepted Answer

Synthesizing host cell DNA

Question 10

During which stage of HIV infection is the viral load typically highest?

Accepted Answer

Acute infection

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why HIV infection leads to immunodeficiency?

Accepted Answer

HIV destroys CD4+ T cells, impairing both humoral and cell-mediated immunity

Question 12

Which of the following drugs is a reverse transcriptase inhibitor used to treat HIV?

Accepted Answer

Zidovudine (AZT)

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the purpose of HAART in HIV treatment?

Accepted Answer

To suppress viral replication and delay disease progression

Question 14

Which of the following is a key reason why the immune system cannot eliminate HIV completely?

Accepted Answer

HIV integrates its genome into host DNA, forming latent reservoirs

Question 15

Which of the following stages is NOT part of the typical progression of untreated HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

Immediate recovery

HIV & AIDS: Structure, Replication, and Treatment

Study Guide - Practice Questions