Describe how the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is replicated once inside helper T cells (T_H cells).
- AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 2
Describe how the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is replicated once inside helper T cells (T_H cells).
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe how the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is replicated once inside helper T cells (T_H cells).
- AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
RNA converted into DNA using reverse transcriptase
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The first step in HIV replication involves converting the viral RNA into DNA. This process is facilitated by an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which is carried by the virus itself.
Step 2
DNA incorporated/inserted into helper T cell DNA
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Once the RNA is converted into DNA, the newly formed viral DNA integrates itself into the host helper T cell's DNA. This integration allows the viral genetic material to be copied along with the host DNA during cell replication.
Step 3
DNA transcribed into HIV mRNA
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The integrated viral DNA is then transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) by the host cell's transcription machinery. This mRNA serves as a template for synthesizing viral proteins.
Step 4
HIV mRNA translated into new HIV/viral proteins
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The viral mRNA is subsequently translated into new HIV proteins by the ribosomes of the host cell. These proteins will assemble into new viral particles, which can be released to infect other T cells.
