Yellow HIV Cut II Blend on White

HIV (the Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a retrovirus, whose genetic content is stored in RNA which is copied into the DNA of the host upon infection. The physical structure of HIV is characterized by a protein shell encapsulating the genetic information and enzymes of the virus; a lipid membrane that circles the protein capsule; and glycoproteins that dot the surface of the virus, which aid in processes such as entry into macrophages and T-helper cells of the host. In this image we see a first-rate representation of such an HIV viron. The superficial structure of this model is accurate and consistent with the typical structure of HIV from its variegated lipid surface to its protruding glycoproteins.

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