In: Biology
HIV only infects lymphocyte (Helper T cells) because they have the receptor for HIV virus as CD4. When the cell is infected the HIV injects its genome , RNA along with certain enzymes. The RNA is converted to DNA by its enzyme, reverse transcriptase. And incoperated inside the host genome. When the host genome undergoes transcription, the viral gene also get transcripted. Now a lots of viral mRNA is produced some of this mRNA is used to make enzymes and proteins for the HIV and some are used for its genomic content. When the viral components are ready, now a multiple of viral mRNA is formed along with its protein, they come out of the cell as matured HIV and infects other neighbouring lymphocytes.