What does HIV primarily deplete in the immune system?

HIV primarily targets and depletes helper T cells, also known as CD4+ T cells, within the immune system. These cells play a crucial role in orchestrating the immune response by activating other immune cells, including B cells and cytotoxic T cells. With the depletion of these helper T cells, the immune system becomes less effective in mounting a response against infections and diseases. This impairment can lead to opportunistic infections and the progression to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if untreated. The specific targeting of helper T cells is central to the pathogenicity of HIV, making this answer the most accurate. Other cell types, while important in the immune response, are not primarily affected in the same way by HIV.