Retroviruses: reverse transcriptase and integrase
How does HIV, a retrovirus, insert its genome into the host's DNA?
Answer A: explanation for every choice
A
Correct. Reverse transcriptase makes DNA from the RNA genome, and integrase inserts it as a provirus.
B
RNA-dependent RNA polymerase is used by many RNA viruses that never integrate.
C
Host DNA polymerase cannot use an RNA template.
D
Telomerase extends telomeres. It plays no role in viral integration.
TakeawayRetrovirus: RNA → DNA (reverse transcriptase) → integrated provirus (integrase).
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID bb82.