What would the result be if a drug that blocks the action of rna polymerase was introduced into a virus-infected organism?

Question

Addison Wyatt

Biology

13 July, 19:09

What would the result be if a drug that blocks the action of rna polymerase was introduced into a virus-infected organism?

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Answers (2)

Know the Answer?

Irene Foster · Answer 1

Viral proteins are not produced so the virus cannot reproduce normally

Explanation:

Viruses use the cellular machinery of the host to reproduce itself. They are able to exploit the transcriptional and translational machinery in the host in order to reproduce itself

Karly Owens · Answer 2

The correct answer is: viral replication would stop.

Explanation:

Drugs that block the action of RNA polymerase in viruses are called antivirals and are used to cure viral infections like Hepatitis and Herpes.

Antivirals do not destroy the virus but rather mess with its development by inhibiting its replication.

Viruses do not have the capacity to replicate or synthesize proteins by themselves, so they need a host that can "lend them" the structures needed to perform those processes. If the drug blocks the RNA polymerase, the virus won't be able to replicate itself.