Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the primary building block (monomer) of nucleic acids?
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1. Introduction to Biochemistry
Nucleic Acids
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RNA viruses require their own supply of certain enzymes because __________.
A
host cells degrade all viral proteins immediately upon entry
B
host cells lack enzymes that can replicate viral RNA
C
host cells cannot transport viral RNA into the nucleus
D
host cells do not provide ribosomes for viral protein synthesis
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the nature of RNA viruses: RNA viruses have genomes made of RNA rather than DNA, and they rely on host cells to replicate and produce proteins.
Recognize the limitation of host cells: Host cells typically lack enzymes capable of replicating RNA directly from an RNA template. This is because cellular machinery is designed to replicate DNA and transcribe it into RNA, not replicate RNA itself.
Identify the role of viral enzymes: RNA viruses must bring their own enzymes, such as RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, to replicate their RNA genome. This enzyme synthesizes RNA from an RNA template, a process not naturally performed by host cells.
Eliminate incorrect options: Host cells do not degrade all viral proteins immediately upon entry, as viruses often evade immune responses. Host cells can transport viral RNA into the cytoplasm, and ribosomes are provided by the host for viral protein synthesis. These options are not relevant to the replication of viral RNA.
Conclude the correct answer: RNA viruses require their own supply of certain enzymes because host cells lack enzymes that can replicate viral RNA.
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