What function makes the HIV virus unique? (1 point)
A. • It has viral DNA that is transmitted through indirect contact with infected persons
B. • It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA.
C. • It attacks neurons in the nervous system and causes paralysis.
D. • It attacks and destroys red blood cells in the bodies of its host organisms.
B. • It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA.
The correct answer is B. • It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA.
To determine the function that makes the HIV virus unique, we can analyze and evaluate each option provided:
A. • It has viral DNA that is transmitted through indirect contact with infected persons: This option refers to the mode of transmission for the virus, not its unique function.
B. • It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA: This is a key function of the HIV virus, known as reverse transcription. It converts its RNA genome into DNA, which allows it to integrate into the DNA of the host cells and replicate itself.
C. • It attacks neurons in the nervous system and causes paralysis: This option describes the function of another virus, not HIV. HIV primarily attacks immune cells called CD4 T cells, weakening the immune system rather than affecting neurons.
D. • It attacks and destroys red blood cells in the bodies of its host organisms: This option describes the function of another virus, not HIV. HIV primarily targets CD4 T cells, which are crucial for the immune response, but not red blood cells.
Based on the analysis, the correct answer is B. • It copies the information for reproduction from RNA back into DNA. This unique function of reverse transcription sets HIV apart from many other viruses.