Final answer:
Reverse transcriptase synthesizes DNA from viral RNA, which is then integrated into the host cell's genome. Drugs targeting this enzyme, such as reverse transcriptase inhibitors, inhibit this step in HIV's replication cycle, presenting an effective means of treatment without affecting host cell processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the primary targets for drugs against HIV, which is a retrovirus, is the reverse transcriptase enzyme. The correct answer to why reverse transcriptase is a target is that c) Reverse transcriptase synthesizes DNA from viral RNA. HIV uses reverse transcriptase to convert its RNA genome into a DNA copy.
This DNA then integrates into the host cell's genome. It is because of this unique replication process that drugs such as reverse transcriptase inhibitors (e.g., AZT) are designed to interfere with the replication cycle of HIV without adversely affecting the host's cells.
HIV replication involves a step known as reverse transcription, which is unique to retroviruses. In this step, the virus's own enzyme, reverse transcriptase, transcribes its RNA into DNA. Since this process does not occur in uninfected host cells, it presents a good target for antiviral drugs. These drugs work by inhibiting the enzyme, thereby preventing the virus from replicating within human cells and slowing down the progression of the disease.