Provirus

Definition

A provirus is a viral genome that integrates into the DNA of a host cell. It can remain latent for extended periods before becoming active and producing new virus particles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Proviruses are formed by retroviruses, such as HIV, which reverse transcribe their RNA into DNA.
2. Once integrated, the proviral DNA is replicated along with the host's genome during cell division.
3. The integration of a provirus can disrupt normal cellular function and may lead to diseases like cancer.
4. Proviruses are not easily detected by the immune system since they are part of the host’s own DNA.
5. Latency allows proviruses to evade antiviral treatments that target active viral replication.

Review Questions

• What type of viruses typically form proviruses?
• How does a provirus integrate into the host's genome?
• Why are proviruses difficult for the immune system to detect?

Related terms

Retrovirus: A type of virus that uses reverse transcriptase to convert its RNA into DNA.

Latency:

A period during which a virus remains dormant within a host without causing overt symptoms.

Reverse Transcriptase:

An enzyme used by retroviruses to synthesize DNA from their RNA template.