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Chapter 18: Problem 8

What is the role of reverse transcriptase in the reproductive cycle of HIV and other retroviruses?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The role of reverse transcriptase in the reproductive cycle of HIV and other retroviruses is to convert the viral RNA into DNA, which then gets integrated into the host cell's genome. This allows the virus to use the host's cellular machinery for its own replication and production of new viruses.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Reverse Transcriptase

Reverse transcriptase is an enzyme found in retroviruses (like HIV). This enzyme has the unique capability of transcribing an RNA template into DNA, which is the opposite direction of the usual flow of genetic information in cells, where DNA is transcribed into RNA. The first step, therefore, is understanding the fundamental role of reverse transcriptase in retroviruses. In essence, it synthesizes DNA from the RNA genome of the virus.
02

The Reproductive Cycle of Retroviruses

In the reproductive cycle of retroviruses, reverse transcriptase plays a critical role. After the retrovirus enters a host cell, reverse transcriptase converts the viral RNA into DNA. This 'reverse transcription' process involves the creation of a DNA-RNA hybrid, followed by the catalysis of the DNA strand, and finally, the degradation of the RNA strand. This results in a single stranded DNA, which then is converted into a double stranded DNA by reverse transcriptase.
03

Integration of Viral DNA into Host's Genome

This newly formed viral DNA, synthesized by reverse transcriptase, can then be integrated into the host cell's genome. This process is facilitated by another viral enzyme, called integrase. Once integrated, the viral DNA, also known as a provirus, can use the host cell's machinery to reproduce, thereby resulting in the accumulation of new virus particles. These particles are then assembled into new viruses, which can be released to infect new cells, and the cycle continues.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Figure \(18.11\) shows a genetic switch that controls the choice between the lytic and lysogenic cycles of phage \(\lambda\). What is a genetic switch? Compare the roles of a genetic switch and a simple operator site (like the one found in the lac operon) in gene regulation.

Explain the role of RNase \(\mathrm{H}\) (a component of reverse transcriptase) during the synthesis of HIV DNA.

Discuss why viruses are considered nonliving.

Describe how lytic bacteriophages are released from their host cells.

What is the difference between a temperate phage versus a virulent phage?
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