Before You Begin
Question #45876
The Question
During retroviral infection, the single-stranded viral RNA genome is converted into double-stranded DNA by Reverse Transcriptase before integrating into the host genome as a provirus. For the host's RNA polymerase to synthesize new viral RNA genomes, which of the following accurately describes the template strand utilized and its origin?
Options
- A.
The template is the coding (+) DNA strand, synthesized by the DNA-dependent DNA polymerase activity of Reverse Transcriptase.
- B.
The template is the non-coding (-) DNA strand, synthesized directly from the viral RNA by the RNA-dependent DNA polymerase activity of Reverse Transcriptase.
- C.
The template is the non-coding (-) DNA strand, synthesized by the host's DNA polymerase after RNase H degrades the viral RNA.
- D.
The template is the coding (+) DNA strand, synthesized directly from the viral RNA by the RNA-dependent DNA polymerase activity of Reverse Transcriptase.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
DNA Polymerase Directionality|Non-Coding Strand Utility|Human Genome Repetitive DNA
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize 'Reverse Transcriptase makes DNA from RNA' without tracking strand polarity.
The trap lies in failing to integrate the Central Dogma (Template vs Coding strand) with the retroviral life cycle.
To regenerate a (+) RNA genome, the host RNA polymerase must use the (-) DNA strand as a template, which is the very first strand synthesized by the viral enzyme's RNA-dependent DNA polymerase activity.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Molecular Basis of Inheritance - Class 12 |
| Concept | DNA Polymerase Directionality |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |