A biologist develops a new drug that seems to dramatically slow the onset of symptoms resulting from HIV infection. Close monitoring of HIV-infected cells reveals that the viral proteins are in the form of long polyproteins. The biologist most likely developed a

The correct answer is: Protease inhibitor.

Explanation:

A protease inhibitor is a type of antiviral drug that is used mostly to treat AIDS and Hepatitis C.

Protease inhibitors work by blocking proteolytic cleavage of protein precursors so they can impede viral replication.

Protease inhibitors are very successful in the treatment of these diseases but they can have some side effects, like generating diabetes and kidney stones.