The RNA dimer packed in the HIV virion includes two host tRNA molecules hybridized so as to present a 3' OH for __________ synthesis of DNA.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The two host tRNA molecules in the RNA dimer of HIV serve as primers for the reverse transcriptase enzyme to synthesize DNA. The 3' OH end of the tRNA is essential for the initiation of DNA synthesis, making choice C the correct answer. The hybridization of the tRNA molecules also ensures that both strands of the viral genome are copied during reverse transcription. Choices A, B, D, and E do not accurately describe the role of the tRNA primers in this process.

The RNA Dimer Packed in the HIV Virion Includes Two