Question

Which of the following information transfers is catalyzed the reverse transcriptase?

Options

• RNA → RNA

• DNA → RNA

• RNA → DNA

• DNA → DNA

Answer 1

RNA → DNA

Explanation:

Reverse transcriptase is a specialised enzyme that facilitates the synthesis of complementary DNA (cDNA) using a single-stranded RNA molecule as a template. This process, known as reverse transcription, effectively reverses the standard flow of genetic information described by the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology, which typically moves from DNA to RNA. It is essential for the replication cycle of retroviruses like HIV, allowing them to integrate their viral genetic material into the host cell's genome.