Lenacapavir HIV Capsid Inhibitor – First Long-Acting HIV Drug

Context

Lenacapavir, the world’s first long-acting HIV capsid inhibitor, confirmed that the HIV capsid is a stable and reliable drug target. (Page 6)

What is Capsid?

(Page 7 diagram shows capsid as a protein shell enclosing viral genetic material.)

Capsid = Protein shell around virus protecting its RNA.

Why Discovery Matters

  1. Capsid is Essential
    If mutated heavily → Virus weakens or dies.
  2. Resistance Slower
    Earlier drugs faced rapid resistance.
    Capsid mutations damage virus → Harder to resist.
  3. New Drug Class
    Opens path for capsid-targeting medicines.
  4. Long-Acting Treatment
    Lenacapavir injection once every six months.

What is HIV?

  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus
  • Attacks CD4 cells (immune system)

Transmission

  • Mother to child (pregnancy/birth/breastfeeding)
  • Infected blood transfusion
  • Sharing needles
  • Unprotected intimate contact
  • Not spread by casual contact
PYQ – 2013, Ans – B
About the UPSC Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE)

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is one of the most competitive and esteemed examinations in India, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit officers for services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and others. The exam comprises three stages — Prelims, Mains, and the Personality Test (Interview) — designed to test a candidate’s knowledge, aptitude, decision-making, and leadership skills.


How to Prepare Effectively for UPSC CSE

Cracking the UPSC CSE requires a deep understanding of the syllabus, consistent revision, structured answer writing, and smart test-taking strategies. The Prelims test analytical and conceptual clarity, the Mains focuses on critical thinking, articulation, and subject mastery, while the Interview assesses presence of mind, ethical judgment, and personality traits relevant to public service.

At UnderStand UPSC, we empower aspirants with a personalized and focused approach to each stage of the exam.


Why Choose UnderStand UPSC?

UnderStand UPSC is a mentorship-driven platform offering a clear, clutter-free strategy to tackle the Civil Services Examination. Our programs like Transform (for beginners and intermediate learners) and Conquer (for advanced mains preparation) provide structured study plans, syllabus-wise video content, interactive live sessions, and answer writing support.

We emphasize:

  • Concept clarity through topic-wise lectures

  • Test series designed around real UPSC standards

  • Personalized mentorship in small groups

  • Regular performance tracking and peer benchmarking

  • Doubt-clearing sessions, current affairs analysis, and monthly magazines


Join the UnderStand UPSC Learning Community

Our mission is to make UPSC preparation less overwhelming and more strategic. We combine mentorship, discipline, and academic rigor to help you clear CSE with confidence. Whether you’re preparing from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or a remote village — our online-first model ensures quality guidance reaches every corner of India.

Join the thousands of aspirants who trust UnderStand UPSC to guide their journey toward becoming civil servants.

Stay connected with us through our Telegram, YouTube, and Instagram channels for daily tips, strategies, and updates.

Copyright © 2026 USARAMBHA EDUCATION (UnderStand UPSC). All Rights Reserved.

Join the Success Journey!