Answer to Question 1
In addition to adequate testing for the presence and levels of HIV in the blood, testing for viral mutations through genotype and phenotype assays can assist the process of choosing the most potentially effective therapies. A genotype assay is used to identify points in the DNA sequence of the virus genome that may be mutated and cause resistance to treatment. Phenotype assays are used to determine viral susceptibility to a particular drug. In some cases, genotype predictions of drug resistance and phenotype testing for resistance may show different results or discordance. The prediction of virus susceptibility based on genotype and phenotype testing may assist in the effective use of medications and help to limit the exposure to medications and their associated toxicities when resistance is likely.
Answer to Question 2
trans fatty acids, trans fats