Reverse transcription of viral RNA to form DNA 3. Integration and transcription of viral DNA 4. Translation of viral RNA 5. Viral protease enzyme activation 6. RTIs block this step, preventing HIV reproduction.
Protease inhibitors are the second class of anti-HIV drugs currently available.
Without these smaller, active forms of protein, HIV cannot reproduce. Most patients receiving drug therapy take both reverse transcription inhibitors and protease inhibitors. HIV mutates rapidly and new, drug-resistant HIV strains have evolved. Future HIV treatments will target additional phases of HIV reproduction. One class of drugs under study will make HIV unable to attach and enter the Helper T cell.