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Chapter 18: Problem 23

Why is gap repair synthesis needed during HIV DNA integration?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Gap repair synthesis is needed during HIV DNA integration to mend the 'gaps' left at each end of the inserted viral DNA sequence. It ensures successful incorporation of the viral DNA into the host genome, a vital step for the virus's replication.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding HIV's Replication Process

HIV, or the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a type of retrovirus. Retroviruses replicate by integrating a DNA copy of their genome into the host cell's DNA. This process is catalyzed by the viral enzyme integrase.
02

HIV DNA Integration

After the virus's RNA genome is reverse-transcribed into DNA, this viral DNA needs to be integrated into the host's genome for the virus to replicate. The enzyme integrase cleaves a few nucleotides from each 3' end of the viral DNA and facilitates its insertion into the host cell's DNA molecule. This results in 'gaps' between the ends of the integrated viral DNA and the host DNA.
03

Need for Gap Repair Synthesis

Gap repair synthesis is needed to fill these gaps. This process involves cellular enzymes that repair the break in the host DNA, essentially 'gluing' the viral and host DNA together. Without gap repair synthesis, the integration process is incomplete, and the virus cannot successfully replicate within the host cell. This repair process is essential for the continuity of the DNA molecule as well.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

What structural features are common to all viruses? Which features are found only in certain types of viruses?

Describe the role that integrase plays during the insertion of \(\lambda\) DNA into the host chromosome.

Compare and contrast the entry step of the viral reproductive cycle of phage \(\lambda\) and HIV.

Compare and contrast the roles of fully spliced, incompletely spliced, and unspliced HIV RNA. Which type is needed in the early stages of HIV proliferation, and which is needed in later stages?

Describe the role of the Gag polyprotein during the assembly of HIV components at the host-cell plasma membrane.
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