The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains a global health challenge, with over 38 million people living with the virus worldwide. The development of effective antiretroviral therapies has revolutionized HIV management, transforming the infection from a once debilitating disease to a chronic condition. This article explores the diverse landscape of HIV drug targets and therapeutic strategies, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat the virus and improve patient outcomes. HIV infects CD4+ T cells, macrophages and dendritic cells, hijacking the host cellular machinery to replicate and spread. The discovery of key viral enzymes, such as reverse transcriptase, integrase and protease, has paved the way for targeted drug development. Antiretroviral drugs inhibiting these viral enzymes have become the cornerstone of HIV therapy, effectively suppressing viral replication and reducing viral load in infected individuals. Despite the success of current therapies, challenges persist. Drug resistance, treatment adherence and long term toxicity are some of the concerns that warrant ongoing research and innovation. Combating HIV requires a comprehensive approach, involving combination therapies, novel drug targets and alternative treatment regimens. In recent years, the concept of HIV cure research has gained momentum. Therapeutic strategies aimed at achieving sustained remission or eradication of the virus have become an area of intense investigation. These include immune-based therapies, gene editing technologies and shock and kill approaches to target latent viral reservoirs. Furthermore, addressing the global disparities in HIV treatment and prevention remains a critical objective. Ensuring access to affordable and effective antiretroviral therapies for all those in need is essential in curbing the spread of the virus and reducing the burden of HIV related morbidity and mortality.
Published Date: 2024-01-03; Received Date: 2023-08-07
