The reverse transcription of HIV RNA utilizes host cell tRNA as a primer. Specifically, a tRNA for lysine is utilized. Would a drug that blocked the host cell synthesis of the tRNA for lysine be a good drug to prevent the HIV life cycle?
A) Yes, it should stop the reverse transcription of the HIV genome with few side effects.
B) No, the virus would just use a different tRNA for priming.
C) No, this would likely kill the cells that were drug treated, because they couldn't appropriately incorporate lysine into their proteins.
D) No, the priming function of the tRNA is not essential for the HIV life cycle.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Blocking the host cell synthesis of tRNA for lysine would disrupt the cell's ability to incorporate lysine into proteins, which is essential for cell survival and function. This would likely result in cell death, making it a poor strategy for targeting HIV without causing significant harm to the host.

The Reverse Transcription of HIV RNA Utilizes Host Cell TRNA