The HIV virus

The HIV virus is a retro virus inwhich genetic material is carried in the form of RNA instead of DNA. Its genetic material is surrounded by a protein coat of a type called GP24. It is studded with glycoproteins of 2 types - Gp 120 and Gp 41. They aid in cell recognition and identification of CD4+ white blood cells in which is resides in.

Once inside the white blood cell, an enzyme of its own - reverse transcriptase converts the RNA material to DNA material and uses the host's enzymes and ribosomes to recreate replicas of itself before bursting out of its host, killing it.

The triple treatment or AZT is used for halting the virus's replication. It consists of 2 reverse transcriptase inhibitors and 1 protease inhibitor.

reperfusion damage

Caused by formation of free radicals that are highly reactive and could destroy cells in their path. They can cause chain reactions that can lead to cellular damage and death. When blockage of a coronary artery deprives the heart muscle of O2, reperfusion, the reestablishing of the blood flow may damage the tissue further. the body produces 2 enzymes that neutralise these free radicals - superoxide dimustase and catalase. Other minerlas such as vitamin E and C are also antioxidants.