What is the role of TDF (Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate) in HIV treatment?

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate (TDF) is classified as a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) in the treatment of HIV. NRTIs work by interfering with reverse transcriptase, an enzyme essential for the replication of the HIV virus. By mimicking the natural nucleotides that are used to create viral DNA, TDF gets incorporated into the growing viral DNA chain. This incorporation results in premature termination of the DNA strand, effectively preventing the virus from replicating and spreading within the body.

TDF's mechanism of action is central to antiretroviral therapy for HIV as it helps to reduce the viral load, improve immune function, and decrease the progression of HIV infection to AIDS. Given its role as an NRTI, it is often included in combination therapy regimens to enhance efficacy and reduce the potential for resistance.

Other classes of antiviral medications, such as protease inhibitors, integrase inhibitors, and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), function differently and target distinct points in the viral life cycle. However, TDF specifically works by targeting reverse transcriptase, which directly correlates with its classification as an NRTI.