How does HIV affect the body's immune response?

HIV primarily affects the body's immune response by specifically targeting and destroying CD4 cells, also known as T-helper cells. These cells are essential to the immune system, as they play a crucial role in coordinating the immune response to infections and diseases. When HIV infects and destroys these cells, the overall functionality of the immune system is significantly compromised.

As the population of CD4 cells decreases, the body becomes increasingly vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers, which the immune system would normally be able to combat effectively. This destruction of CD4 cells leads to the progression of HIV infection into AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), wherein the immune response is severely weakened, making it challenging for the body to fight off infections or maintain immune surveillance against cancerous cells.

The other options do not reflect the effects of HIV accurately. The notion that HIV strengthens or enhances the immune system is contrary to its known impact, as the virus undermines the very cells required for a robust immune response. Additionally, claiming that HIV has no impact on the immune response directly contradicts the established pathophysiology of the virus and its consequences on human health.