Final answer:
Reverse transcriptase's role in the HIV life cycle is crucial for the conversion of viral RNA into DNA, which is necessary for viral replication. The correct match for the enzymatic function of reverse transcriptase is D. Replication - Reverse transcriptase, as it synthesizes a DNA strand complementary to the viral RNA, followed by forming a double-stranded DNA.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function of reverse transcriptase in the HIV life cycle is specific and critical. This viral enzyme plays a role in converting the viral RNA into DNA. Notably, reverse transcriptase does not participate in integration, transcription from DNA to RNA, or translation of RNA into protein; instead, its role is in the replication of the virus. As such, the correct match for the function of reverse transcriptase during the HIV life cycle is:
- D. Replication - Reverse transcriptase
First, reverse transcriptase uses the viral RNA as a template to synthesize a complementary strand of DNA. Then, the enzyme makes a second DNA strand, resulting in double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). This dsDNA is later integrated into the host's genome by another viral enzyme, integrase. Reverse transcriptase is the target of certain antiretroviral drugs, commonly known as reverse transcriptase inhibitors, that aim to block the replication of the virus.