Cleavage of the polyprotein requires a specific protease that is the target for new anti-HIV drugs. Next, RT degrades the RNA strand using its RNAseH function and synthesizes a new DNA strand to produce a DNA duplex that circularizes. The circular DNA then integrates into the host genome, where it remains to be transcribed to produce new progeny RNA molecules. Following replication, the viruses escape by budding. HIV is transmitted via body fluids.
Blood is the best and persons can acquire through sex, parenteral drug usage or transfusions.
Following infection, it may remain latent for many years. Patients generally die of secondary manifestations including Kaposi's sarcoma or opportunistic infections. Kaposi's sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that occurs in HIV-infected persons. These normally benign lesions become malignant and disseminate to involve visceral organs. This condition mimics Alzheimer's disease and may involve HIV infection of the brain.