RNA retroviruses use Choose one: A. restriction enzymes to replicate and transcribe their genomes. B. host DNA polymerase to replicate their genome and host RNA polymerase to transcribe it. C. viral reverse transcriptase to make a DNA copy that is integrated into the host genome and then host RNA polymerase transcribes it. D. viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to replicate their genomes and transcribe it.

Question

Francesca Hatfield

Biology

4 August, 01:56

RNA retroviruses use Choose one: A. restriction enzymes to replicate and transcribe their genomes. B. host DNA polymerase to replicate their genome and host RNA polymerase to transcribe it. C. viral reverse transcriptase to make a DNA copy that is integrated into the host genome and then host RNA polymerase transcribes it. D. viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to replicate their genomes and transcribe it.

+2

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Liam Porter · Answer 1

The correct answer is option C. "viral reverse transcriptase to make a DNA copy that is integrated into the host genome and then host RNA polymerase transcribes it".

Explanation:

RNA retroviruses are an unique type of virus that defies the central dogma of molecular biology because is able to transform its genetic material from RNA to DNA. In order to do so, the virus has an enzyme called reverse transcriptase. RNA retroviruses use viral reverse transcriptase to make a DNA copy that is integrated into the host genome and then host RNA polymerase transcribes it. At the end, the virus takes advantage of the transcription and translation mechanisms of the host cells to reproduce itself and keep infecting nearby cells.