Final answer:
Zidovudine (AZT) is a nucleoside analog commonly used as a reverse transcriptase inhibitor in the treatment of HIV. It works by inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing the conversion of viral RNA into DNA.
Step-by-step explanation:
Zidovudine (AZT)
Zidovudine, also known as AZT or Retrovir, is a nucleoside analog commonly used as a reverse transcriptase inhibitor in the treatment of HIV. It works by binding to and inhibiting the reverse transcriptase enzyme, preventing the conversion of viral RNA into DNA. By inhibiting this process, Zidovudine helps to slow down the replication of the virus and reduce its effects on the immune system.
Example:
When HIV infects a human cell, reverse transcriptase starts converting viral RNA into DNA. Zidovudine acts as a nucleoside analog, which means it mimics one of the building blocks of DNA but doesn't allow further replication. By incorporating Zidovudine into the viral DNA, the replication process is interrupted, reducing the overall viral load in the body.
Reference:
Cihlar, T.; Ray, A.S. Antiviral Research, 2010, 85, 39-58.