Multiple Choice
Which sugar molecule is found in the backbone of DNA?
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1. Introduction to Biochemistry
Nucleic Acids
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Why do retroviruses like HIV encode reverse transcriptase in their genomes?
A
To directly translate their RNA genome into viral proteins without host machinery.
B
To replicate their RNA genome using host DNA polymerase.
C
To synthesize DNA from their RNA genome, allowing integration into the host genome.
D
To degrade host DNA and facilitate viral replication.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the nature of retroviruses: Retroviruses are RNA viruses that have a unique replication strategy involving the conversion of their RNA genome into DNA.
Learn the role of reverse transcriptase: Reverse transcriptase is an enzyme encoded by retroviruses that catalyzes the synthesis of complementary DNA (cDNA) from their RNA genome. This process is known as reverse transcription.
Explore the integration process: Once the cDNA is synthesized, it is integrated into the host genome using another viral enzyme called integrase. This integration allows the viral genome to be transcribed and translated using the host's cellular machinery.
Clarify why host machinery is insufficient: Host cells do not naturally possess reverse transcriptase, as they typically transcribe DNA into RNA (not the reverse). Retroviruses must encode this enzyme to complete their replication cycle.
Understand the significance of reverse transcriptase: By synthesizing DNA from RNA, retroviruses like HIV can establish a persistent infection by integrating their genetic material into the host genome, ensuring replication and production of new viral particles.
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