Explore the fundamentals of HIV resistance and antiretroviral therapy in this comprehensive lecture presented by the Harvard University Center for AIDS Research. Delve into topics such as viral mutations, drug resistance mechanisms, patient factors affecting treatment, and strategies for managing and preventing resistance. Learn about the intricacies of HIV's lifecycle, the impact of errors and mutations on viral strains, and the importance of viral suppression. Gain insights into cross-resistance, viral fitness, and the role of drug-related factors in treatment outcomes. Understand how to identify, check for, and manage drug resistance through various testing methods. Discover the significance of patient adherence and its impact on treatment success, illustrated through an engaging elephant analogy. Conclude with key points that summarize essential knowledge for effectively addressing HIV resistance in clinical practice.