Mechanisms of Host Resistance Against HIV Infection and Progression to AIDS

Since the discovery in the early eighties of the human immunodeficiency virus (hiv) that causes acquired immunodeficiencysyndrome (aids), there have been reports of people who were completely resistant to infection with hiv and others whoprogressed at slower rates to aids. the present article summarises the mechanisms involved in resistance against hiv infection andprogression to aids. the paper will specifically focus on the role of immunological mechanisms, genetics, ethnicity and cultural practicessuch as male circumcision in mitigating infection. the current understanding on host natural resistance against hiv infectionand progression to aids would potentially contribute to better prevention strategies, delayed onset of aids in people living with hiv,the identification of more efficient types of therapy for aids patients and, possibly, appropriate vaccines against hiv/aids. this areaof research has important implications for patient care through controlling factors that contribute to aids progression.