BIO NMDCAT Sexually transmitted diseases
nmdcat.online July 16, 2026

The characteristic feature of a retrovirus like HIV, which causes a sexually transmitted immunodeficiency, is its ability to:

A. Produce toxins that directly lyse host cells
B. Utilize RNA-dependent DNA polymerase to synthesize DNA from an RNA template
C. Form a hard protective endospore
D. Survive extreme environmental temperatures

📝 Explanation

The correct option is Utilize RNA-dependent DNA polymerase to synthesize DNA from an RNA template. Retroviruses possess an RNA genome and the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which reverse-transcribes their RNA into DNA, a process essential for integrating into the host's genome.

📖 Additional Information

  • Produce toxins that directly lyse host cells
  • Utilize RNA-dependent DNA polymerase to synthesize DNA from an RNA template
  • Form a hard protective endospore
  • Survive extreme environmental temperatures

The correct option is Utilize RNA-dependent DNA polymerase to synthesize DNA from an RNA template. Retroviruses possess an RNA genome and the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which reverse-transcribes their RNA into DNA, a process essential for integrating into the host's genome.

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