Question

Reverse transcriptase is a useful enzyme to have when?

Answer 1

This molecule is used by retroviruses to create DNA by using mRNA as a template. We know that normally transcription is the synthesis of mRNA from DNA. This can be useful in bioengeneering when using a virus as a vector to alter the genetic material of the host.

Answer 2

Reverse Transcriptase (RT) is essential for HIV replication because the viral RNA genome on its own is highly susceptible to degradation by intracellular RNases. RT rapidly makes a much more nuclease-resistant double-stranded DNA copy of the RNA template that later integrates to form the proviral DNA.