Question

Retrovirus and retrotransposon DNA sequences insert into the DNA of the host with the aid of sequences at their ends. These virus end sequences are called _________.

Answer 1

Virus end sequences that help insert retrovirus and retrotransposon DNA into the host's DNA are called long terminal repeats (LTRs).

Step-by-step explanation:

The virus end sequences that aid retrovirus and retrotransposon DNA sequences to insert into the DNA of the host are called long terminal repeats (LTRs). LTRs flanking retroviral and retrotransposon DNA play a crucial role in their integration into the host genome. Retroviruses, like HIV, use reverse transcriptase to convert their RNA into DNA, which can then integrate into the host cell's DNA with the help of integrase. This integrated DNA is referred to as a provirus. Retrotransposons may lack the envelope protein that confers infectivity to retroviruses but can still move within the genome in a similar manner through the process of retrotransposition. Consequently, retrotransposons can significantly alter the host genome as they add or disrupt genetic sequences.