The human immunodeficiency virus and its pathogenesis.

HIV is a lentivirus that infects many tissues of the body, including the cells of the brain, the hematopoietic system, and the bowel epithelium. Its spread is mediated by virus-infected cells. Control of HIV depends on a strong host immune response against virus-infected cells, either through suppression of virus release or through killing of the virus-infected cells. Present studies are directed at understanding mechanisms by which effective antiviral therapy and a vaccine can be developed.