RETROVIRUS Meaning and
Definition
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A retrovirus is a type of RNA virus that replicates by converting its RNA genome into DNA using an enzyme called reverse transcriptase. This reverse transcription process allows the retrovirus to integrate its genetic material into the genome of the host cell it infects, making it a permanent part of the cell's DNA. The viral DNA can then be transcribed and translated by the host cell to produce viral proteins, ultimately leading to the production of new retrovirus particles.
Retroviruses are known for their ability to cause diseases in animals and humans. Notable examples include the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which is responsible for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), and various types of oncoviruses, which can induce the development of certain forms of cancer. Retroviruses are characterized by a unique structure that consists of an outer envelope derived from the host cell membrane, enclosing a core containing the RNA genome, reverse transcriptase, and other viral proteins.
Due to their ability to integrate into the host genome, retroviruses have been extensively studied for their potential in gene therapy and genetic engineering. Scientists have utilized retroviruses as vectors to introduce therapeutic genes into cells, with the goal of treating genetic disorders or improving immune responses. However, the potential risks associated with the permanent alteration of the host genome have led to careful evaluations of safety and efficacy in such applications.
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Other Common Misspellings for RETROVIRUS
Etymology of RETROVIRUS
The word "retrovirus" is derived from the Latin prefix "retro-" meaning "backward" or "reversed", and the word "virus", which itself comes from Latin and refers to a poisonous substance or venom. The term "retrovirus" was coined in the 1970s to describe a type of RNA virus that uses the enzyme reverse transcriptase to replicate its genetic material in a unique way, involving the conversion of RNA into DNA, which is then integrated into the host cell's genome. The "retro-" prefix is used to signify the unique characteristic of retroviruses, which involves the reverse flow of genetic information compared to the "normal" process of DNA to RNA to protein synthesis.
Similar spelling words for RETROVIRUS
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