Viruses use the host cell's machinery to make copies of themselves. However, some human viruses require a type of replication that humans do not normally have. For example, humans normally do not have the ability to convert RNA into DNA. How can these types of viruses infect humans, when human cells cannot perform a particular role that the virus requires?
A) The virus causes mutations in the human cells, resulting in the formation of new enzymes that are capable of performing these roles.
B) The viral genome codes for specialized enzymes not found in the host cells.
C) The virus infects only those cells and species that can perform all the replication roles necessary.
D) Viruses can stay in a quiescent state until the host cell evolves this ability.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Some viruses, such as retroviruses, carry enzymes like reverse transcriptase that allow them to convert their RNA genome into DNA, which can then integrate into the host cell's genome. These specialized enzymes are not commonly found in human cells but are coded for by the virus itself, allowing it to complete its replication cycle.

Viruses Use the Host Cell's Machinery to Make Copies of Themselves