HIV is classified as a retrovirus because it
Correct answer: B. uses reverse transcriptase to make DNA from its RNA genome
- A. carries double stranded DNA as its genome
- B. uses reverse transcriptase to make DNA from its RNA genome
- C. replicates inside the nucleolus of the host cell
- D. lacks an envelope around its capsid
Explanation
A retrovirus reverses the usual flow of information: its enzyme reverse transcriptase copies the single stranded RNA genome into DNA, which integrase then inserts into the host chromosome as a provirus. That integrated DNA is why HIV infection is lifelong and can stay latent for years. HIV does have an envelope, and its genome is RNA, not DNA.
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About AIDS and HIV Infection
HIV is a retrovirus that infects CD4 T lymphocytes and gradually weakens immune function, while AIDS is the advanced syndrome caused by severe immune deficiency. Coverage includes viral transmission, replication, disease progression, opportunistic infections, diagnosis, prevention and the difference between HIV infection and AIDS.
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