Project Abstract

Antiretrovirals are medications used to treat infections caused by retroviruses, particularly the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). These drugs work through various mechanisms to inhibit the replication of the virus and reduce the viral load in the body. Understanding the mechanisms of action of antiretrovirals is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and combating drug resistance. There are several classes of antiretrovirals, each targeting different steps in the HIV replication cycle. Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) block the activity of the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which is responsible for converting the virus's RNA into DNA. By interfering with this process, these drugs prevent the virus from replicating its genetic material. Protease inhibitors (PIs) target the enzyme protease, which is involved in the final stages of viral maturation. By inhibiting protease, these drugs prevent the virus from producing functional proteins necessary for the formation of new viral particles. Integrase inhibitors (INIs) block the enzyme integrase, which is responsible for inserting the viral DNA into the host cell's genome. By inhibiting this step, INIs prevent the virus from integrating its genetic material into the host cell's DNA. Another class of antiretrovirals, fusion inhibitors, work by blocking the fusion of the virus with the host cell membrane, preventing the virus from entering the cell. Entry inhibitors target the CCR5 coreceptor or the CD4 receptor on the host cell, preventing the virus from binding and entering the cell. Combination antiretroviral therapy (ART), also known as highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), involves using a combination of different antiretrovirals to target multiple steps in the HIV replication cycle simultaneously. This approach is effective in reducing viral replication, preventing the development of drug resistance, and improving the immune function of patients living with HIV. Despite the success of antiretroviral therapy in controlling HIV infection and improving the quality of life for patients, challenges such as drug resistance, side effects, and adherence issues remain. Ongoing research is focused on developing new antiretrovirals with improved efficacy, safety, and convenience to address these challenges and further improve the outcomes for individuals living with HIV.

Project Overview