Simian Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (SIV or SAIDS) refers to a type of immunodeficiency syndrome that primarily affects non-human primates, including monkeys and apes. This syndrome is caused by the Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV), a retrovirus similar to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in humans.
SIV is characterized by a progressive deterioration of the immune system in affected primates, leading to increased susceptibility to infections and diseases. The virus specifically targets and replicates within CD4+ T lymphocytes, which play a crucial role in the immune response against pathogens. As a result, the immune system becomes weakened, allowing opportunistic infections and diseases to take hold.
Like HIV in humans, SIV is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood, genital secretions, and breast milk. Transmission can occur through sexual contact, bites, open wounds, or during birth. While SIV primarily affects non-human primates, including various species of monkeys and apes, it is important to note that the virus does not naturally infect humans.
Studying SIV in non-human primates provides valuable insights into the progression and transmission of HIV in humans. Due to the striking similarities between SIV and HIV, knowledge gained from studying SIV in primates has played a crucial role in understanding the mechanisms of HIV infection, developing diagnostic tests, and discovering potential treatments for AIDS.
