Multiple Choice
During which life cycle is the virus making more copies of itself?
1. Overview of Cell Biology
Viruses
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Retroviruses are able to integrate their genome into the host cell?
A
True
B
False
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the nature of retroviruses: Retroviruses are a type of virus that have RNA as their genetic material. They are unique because they use an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to convert their RNA into DNA once inside a host cell.
Learn about reverse transcription: The process of reverse transcription involves the synthesis of complementary DNA (cDNA) from an RNA template. This is a crucial step for retroviruses to integrate their genetic material into the host genome.
Explore the integration process: After reverse transcription, the newly synthesized viral DNA is transported into the host cell's nucleus. Here, another viral enzyme called integrase facilitates the integration of the viral DNA into the host cell's genome.
Consider the implications of integration: Once integrated, the viral DNA is replicated along with the host's DNA during cell division. This allows the virus to persist in the host and produce new viral particles.
Conclude with the answer: Given the ability of retroviruses to integrate their genome into the host cell's DNA, the correct answer to the question is 'True'.
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