For those with an interest in the molecular biology of HIV/AIDS there are two main problems: what are the molecular properties of the virus which result in disease development; and how may the knowledge of the molecular pathology be used to prevent or cure the disease? This study, based on both clinical and molecular trials, outlines the principles of the molecular biology of HIV and AIDS. Topics such as the origins of the virus, viral interactions with the immune system, antiviral intervention and vaccine prospects are covered.