Question:
Which enzyme converts RNA into DNA in retroviruses?
Which enzyme converts RNA into DNA in retroviruses?
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Think of "Reverse" as going backward from RNA to DNA, unlike the normal "Transcription" process.
Updated On: May 5, 2026
- DNA polymerase
- RNA polymerase
- Reverse transcriptase
- Helicase
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Concept
In the standard central dogma of biology, information flows from DNA to RNA (transcription). Retroviruses reverse this process using a specific enzyme.
Step 2: Meaning
The term "reverse transcriptase" refers to an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase that synthesizes a complementary DNA (cDNA) strand from an RNA template.
Step 3: Analysis
DNA polymerase synthesizes DNA from DNA, and RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA from DNA. Helicase is involved in unwinding DNA strands. Only reverse transcriptase has the capability to utilize the viral RNA genome to produce a DNA copy.
Step 4: Conclusion
Therefore, reverse transcriptase is the essential enzyme for retroviral replication inside a host cell. Final Answer: (C)
In the standard central dogma of biology, information flows from DNA to RNA (transcription). Retroviruses reverse this process using a specific enzyme.
Step 2: Meaning
The term "reverse transcriptase" refers to an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase that synthesizes a complementary DNA (cDNA) strand from an RNA template.
Step 3: Analysis
DNA polymerase synthesizes DNA from DNA, and RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA from DNA. Helicase is involved in unwinding DNA strands. Only reverse transcriptase has the capability to utilize the viral RNA genome to produce a DNA copy.
Step 4: Conclusion
Therefore, reverse transcriptase is the essential enzyme for retroviral replication inside a host cell. Final Answer: (C)
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