What function makes the HIV virus unique?
It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA.
It attacks neurons in the nervous system and causes paralysis.
It has viral DNA that is transmitted through indirect contact with infected persons.
It attacks and destroys red blood cells in the bodies of its host organisms.
The correct answer is: It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA.
The function that makes the HIV virus unique is that it copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA.
The correct answer is: It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA.
To determine the correct answer, we can analyze each option and eliminate the ones that do not accurately describe the unique function of the HIV virus.
1. It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA: This is the correct answer and a unique characteristic of HIV. Unlike most viruses, HIV contains RNA as its genetic material. However, it uses an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to convert its RNA into DNA once inside a host cell. This DNA is then incorporated into the host cell's genome.
2. It attacks neurons in the nervous system and causes paralysis: This description does not accurately match the unique function of the HIV virus. While HIV can affect the nervous system and, in some cases, lead to neurological complications, its main target is CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for the immune system.
3. It has viral DNA that is transmitted through indirect contact with infected persons: This option does not describe a unique function of the HIV virus. Many viruses, including HIV, can be transmitted through indirect contact with infected individuals. However, this does not make the function of the virus unique.
4. It attacks and destroys red blood cells in the bodies of its host organisms: This option is incorrect. HIV primarily targets immune system cells, particularly CD4+ T cells, rather than red blood cells.
Therefore, the correct answer is "It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA," which is a unique function of the HIV virus.