Which of the following is the most important reason that developing treatments and vaccines, as well as staging an effective immune response for HIV infections, has been so difficult compared with other viruses?
A) The virus has few, if any, replication- correcting enzymes, and consequently mutates at a high rate.
B) Researchers probably have not yet identified the actual cause of AIDS and, thus, cannot target their drug development accordingly.
C) The virus has no recognizable antigens and, thus, cannot be identified easily by the host's immune system.
D) The virus evades the immune system and drugs by hiding inside cells of the immune system, such as helper T cells.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The high mutation rate of HIV, due to its lack of replication-correcting enzymes, leads to significant genetic variability. This variability complicates the development of effective treatments and vaccines, as well as the immune system's ability to mount a consistent and effective response.

Which of the Following Is the Most Important Reason That