What is the Function of Reverse Transcriptase in Retroviruses

Question

What is the function of reverse transcriptase in retroviruses?
A) It uses viral RNA as a template for DNA synthesis.
B) It converts host cell RNA into viral DNA.
C) It translates viral RNA into proteins.
D) It uses viral RNA as a template for making more viral RNA strands.

Accepted Answer

Reverse transcriptase in retroviruses uses viral RNA as a template to synthesize complementary DNA (cDNA), which is then integrated into the host cell's genome. This process is essential for the replication cycle of retroviruses.