In the absence of retroviruses,eukaryotes may also undergo reverse transcription if which of the following is present?
A)Alu
B)retrograde viruses
C)retrotransposons
D)prions
E)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Retrotransposons are genetic elements that use reverse transcription to transpose themselves within a genome. They are similar to retroviruses in that they have an RNA intermediate that is reverse transcribed into DNA, which can then integrate into the host genome. Therefore, in the absence of retroviruses, eukaryotes can still undergo reverse transcription if retrotransposons are present. Alu elements are a type of retrotransposon, but they are not the only type, so choice A is not the best answer. Retrograde viruses and prions are not related to reverse transcription, so choices B and D are incorrect. Choice E is incorrect because retrotransposons do exist in eukaryotic genomes.

In the Absence of Retroviruses,eukaryotes May Also Undergo Reverse Transcription