Retroviruses, such as HIV, have an enzyme that allows them to catalyze DNA synthesis from an RNA template.This evidence supports the hypothesis that
A) RNA itself cannot be a catalyst.
B) early life consisted of an "RNA world."
C) RNA probably came from an extraterrestrial source.
D) chemical evolution led to polymerization.
E) DNA polymers form from RNA monomers.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that retroviruses can catalyze DNA synthesis from an RNA template suggests that RNA played a crucial role in early life, potentially as the first self-replicating molecule in an "RNA world." This hypothesis suggests that early life relied on RNA for both genetic information and catalytic function.

Retroviruses, Such as HIV, Have an Enzyme That Allows Them