Page 87 - 78 glossary of hivaids-related terms_opt

can reproduce to mount a faster and stronger immune response
than the first time the immune system responded to the invader.
See Also: T Cell

MEMS
See: Medication Event Monitoring System

Meningitis
Inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain or spinal
cord. Meningitis can be caused by a bacterium, fungus, or virus,
such as HIV.

Messenger RNA (mRNA)
A molecule that carries genetic instructions for building a particular
protein from the cell’s DNA to the place in a cell where proteins are
assembled. There, the messenger RNA serves as a blueprint for the
construction of a specific protein.
See Also: Translation
Transcription M

Metabolic
Related to the processes of metabolism, or the chemical changes in
living things by which substances are built up or broken down.

Metabolic Syndrome
Also known as Syndrome X. A cluster of disorders that affect the
body’s metabolism, including high blood pressure, high insulin
levels, excess body weight, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Some
anti-HIV drugs may cause or worsen these metabolic disorders.

Metabolism
The physical and chemical reactions that produce energy for
the body. Metabolism also refers to the breakdown of drugs or
other substances within the body, which may occur during
digestion or elimination.

HIV/AIDS Glossary 85