AIDS is due to

Options

A. Reduction in number of helper T-cells
B. Reduction in number of killer T-cells
C. Autoimmunity
D. Non production of interferons

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding AIDS**: AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. It is a condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which attacks the immune system.

2. **Role of HIV**: The HIV virus primarily targets and destroys a specific type of immune cell known as T-helper lymphocytes (or helper T cells). These cells are crucial for the immune response as they help activate other immune cells, including B lymphocytes, which produce antibodies.

3. **Impact on Immune System**: The destruction of helper T cells leads to a weakened immune system, making the individual more susceptible to infections and diseases. This is the hallmark of AIDS.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Reduction in number of helper T cells**: This is correct. HIV specifically reduces the number of these cells, leading to immunodeficiency.
- **Reduction in number of killer T cells**: This is incorrect. While HIV affects the immune system, its primary target is the helper T cells, not the killer T cells.
- **Autoimmunity**: This is incorrect. Autoimmunity refers to the immune system attacking the body's own cells, which is not the case in AIDS.
- **Non-production of interferons**: This is also incorrect. Interferons are proteins that are produced in response to viral infections, but their production is not directly related to the cause of AIDS.

5. **Conclusion**: The correct answer to the question "AIDS is due to" is the reduction in the number of helper T cells.

**Final Answer**: AIDS is due to the reduction in the number of helper T cells.

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