Final answer:
The enzyme responsible for converting RNA into DNA is called reverse transcriptase. It is essential for the replication of retroviruses like HIV and has numerous applications in genetic engineering, including cDNA synthesis for gene studies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The enzyme capable of taking an RNA genome and generating a DNA copy is called reverse transcriptase. This enzyme is crucial for the life cycle of retroviruses, such as HIV. Reverse transcriptase synthesizes a DNA strand complementary to the RNA template, a process known as reverse transcription. This newly synthesized DNA, termed complementary DNA or cDNA, then forms a double-stranded DNA molecule that can integrate into the host cell's genome. Reverse transcriptase is also used as a practical tool in genetic engineering, allowing scientists to study genes by reverse transcribing mRNA into cDNA for further analysis.
Contrary to the incorrect statements provided, reverse transcriptase does not involve the synthesis of protein nor is it involved in the processes known as reversible genetics or reverse translation. It specifically catalyzes the transcription of RNA into DNA, which is the reverse of the usual transcription process. Furthermore, it is not DNA ligase that synthesizes DNA from the RNA template but the reverse transcriptase enzyme itself. DNA ligase is involved in joining DNA fragments, which is a separate process.
Overall, reverse transcriptase is an enzyme that facilitates a key step in the replication cycle of retroviruses and has become an essential tool in molecular biology and genetic engineering.