Final answer:
Integrase recognizes a specific sequence on the proviral DNA, known as the attachment site, to insert the viral genome into the DNA of the host cell. Integrase inhibitors are antiviral drugs that block this essential step in the HIV life cycle.
Step-by-step explanation:
Integrase is an enzyme used by retroviruses, such as HIV, to insert a copy of their viral genome into the DNA of the host cell. This enzyme recognizes a specific sequence in the proviral DNA known as the attachment (att) site. The process begins with the reverse transcriptase synthesizing a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) from the viral RNA, which then is incorporated into the host genome by the integrase. Integrase cuts the host DNA at this specific sequence to enable the viral DNA to be incorporated. Once integrated, the viral DNA is known as a provirus and can remain dormant, or it can begin to produce new viral particles.
Thanks to scientific research, integrase inhibitors have been developed as antiviral drugs. These drugs effectively block the activity of HIV integrase, preventing the recombination of the viral genome into the host cell chromosome, which is a critical step in the HIV life cycle.