Question

Where is the process of reverse transcription used? Why is it necessary and how does it occur? Reverse transcription has no ___________ abilities, what are the consequences of this?

A) Nucleic acid synthesis
B) Protein folding
C) DNA repair
D) Proofreading

Answer 1

Reverse transcription is used by retroviruses like HIV to replicate within host cells through reverse transcriptase, which synthesizes DNA from an RNA template. This enzyme lacks proofreading capabilities, resulting in a high mutation rate. Additionally, this process is utilized in genetic research to create cDNA from mRNA.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process of reverse transcription is used by certain RNA viruses called retroviruses. In this process, the enzyme reverse transcriptase synthesises a complimentary copy of DNA from the RNA genome of the virus. This DNA is then integrated into the host cell's genome and directs the production of new viral particles. The end result is that viral RNA is reverse transcribed into DNA, which is counter to the usual flow of genetic information in cells where DNA is transcribed into RNA.

Reverse transcription is necessary for these viruses to replicate within a host cell. Without this process, retroviruses like HIV would be unable to make DNA copies of their RNA genome, and thus couldn't integrate into the host genome to propagate the virus.

Reverse transcriptase has no DNA repair or proofreading abilities, which are important for correcting errors that occur during DNA synthesis. This lack of proofreading can result in a high mutation rate, which can lead to rapid evolution of the virus and difficulties in treating viral infections, as mutations can lead to drug resistance.

Scientists also use the reverse transcription process in the lab to study gene expression by creating cDNA from mRNA, thus making it an important tool in genetic research.