Which immune response is primarily targeted by HIV?

HIV primarily targets the cell-mediated immune response, which is a crucial part of the adaptive immune system. This response is characterized by the activation of T lymphocytes, specifically CD4+ T cells (also known as helper T cells). HIV has a particular affinity for these cells, as it uses the CD4 protein as a receptor for entry.

Once inside the CD4+ T cells, HIV replicates and ultimately leads to the depletion of these crucial immune cells. As a result, the body becomes increasingly unable to mount effective immune responses against infections and diseases. The loss of CD4+ T cells is a defining feature of HIV infection and progression to AIDS, emphasizing the importance of the cell-mediated immune response in controlling viral infections.

The other immune responses, while important in the overall immune landscape, do not have the same direct involvement with the HIV mechanism of infection and propagation as the cell-mediated immune response does.