Transmission electron micrograph (TEM - orange tint) of a single virion of a virus causing AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). The virus (designated HIV - Human Immunodeficiency Virus) affects T-lymphocyte cells of the immune system,particularly T-helper cells responsible for stimulating B-lymphocytes,which produce antibodies. This undermines the body's defence system so that it can no longer destroy "opportunistic" infections,notably pneumonia & Kaposi's sarcoma. Transmission of the virus is by sexual contact,through contaminated needles or transfused blood products (eg. Factor VIII). Diameter of spherical virus is 100 nanometers | |
Licence : | Droits gérés |
Crédit: | Science Photo Library / US National Cancer Institute |
Taille de l’image : | 5187 px × 3437 px |
Model Release : | Non requis |
Property Release : | Non requis |
Restrictions : | - |