Human T-cell Lymphocytotrophic Virus

Human T-cell lymphocytotrophic virus (HTLV) is an RNA VIRUS belonging to the RETROVIRUS group. It mainly infects T-CELLS, a type of LYMPHOCYTE involved in the IMMUNE SYSTEM. HTLV uses reverse transcription to insert viral genetic material into the DNA of infected CELLS. Some types of HTLV infection are associated with diseases such as ADULT T-CELL LEUKEMIA and neurological conditions affecting the SPINAL CORD.

HTLV is a virus that infects immune cells and can sometimes lead to blood cancer or nervous system disease.

• Human retrovirus that infects T-cells • Contains RNA genetic material • Integrates viral information into host cell DNA • Can cause long-term infection • Some types are linked with adult T-cell leukemia • May also affect the nervous system