A retrovirus is an RNA virus that inserts a copy of its genome into the DNA of a host cell, thereby changing the cell's genetic makeup. This process is facilitated by the enzyme reverse transcriptase.
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Retroviruses use reverse transcriptase to convert their RNA genome into DNA.
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is one of the most well-known retroviruses.
Once integrated into the host genome, the viral DNA is transcribed and translated by the host cell's machinery.
Retroviruses can remain latent in a host's genome for extended periods before becoming active.
Antiretroviral drugs target various stages of the retrovirus life cycle, including reverse transcription and integration.