The CD4/CCR5 combination allows HIV to infect certain immune cells. These cells include:
1. Helper T-cells: These are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune response by coordinating and activating other immune cells to fight infections. HIV targets and infects helper T-cells, which can weaken the immune system over time.
2. Macrophages: Macrophages are another type of immune cell that can be infected by HIV through the CD4/CCR5 combination. Macrophages are involved in engulfing and digesting pathogens, but when infected with HIV, they can also contribute to the spread of the virus in the body.
It's important to note that dendritic cells, while crucial for initiating immune responses by presenting antigens to T-cells, are not typically targeted by HIV through the CD4/CCR5 combination. HIV primarily targets helper T-cells and macrophages, impacting the immune system's ability to mount an effective response against infections.
