How do integrase inhibitors, such as raltegravir, function in the treatment of HIV?
1). By preventing the integration of viral DNA into the host genome
2). By disrupting viral protein synthesis
3). By inhibiting viral reverse transcriptase
4). By enhancing the host immune response
📝 Explanation:
Integrase inhibitors such as raltegravir, dolutegravir, and bictegravir inhibit the HIV integrase enzyme, preventing insertion of viral DNA into the host cell genome. Without integration, viral replication cannot proceed effectively, making integrase inhibitors one of the most effective components of modern antiretroviral therapy.