**Core Concept**
The question is testing knowledge of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in the context of HIV management. Entry inhibitors are a class of antiretroviral drugs that block the entry of HIV into host cells by targeting the HIV envelope glycoprotein (gp120) or the chemokine co-receptor (CCR5 or CXCR4).
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Entry inhibitors, such as Maraviroc, block the interaction between HIV gp120 and the host cell chemokine co-receptor (CCR5 or CXCR4). This prevents the fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane, effectively inhibiting viral entry. **Maraviroc** specifically targets the CCR5 co-receptor, which is the primary co-receptor used by HIV-1 for entry into host cells.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not a commonly recognized entry inhibitor. **Option B:** Nelfinavir is a protease inhibitor, not an entry inhibitor. **Option C:** Efavirenz is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), which targets the HIV reverse transcriptase enzyme, not the entry process.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Maraviroc is a unique entry inhibitor that has a distinct mechanism of action and is often used in treatment-experienced patients with HIV-1 infection who have resistance to other antiretroviral classes.
**Correct Answer:** C. Maraviroc
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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