Retrovirus (Noun)
Meaning
Any of a group of viruses that contain two single-strand linear RNA molecules per virion and reverse transcriptase (RNA to DNA); the virus transcribes its RNA into a cDNA provirus that is then incorporated into the host cell.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is a type of retrovirus that attacks the body's immune system.
- Retroviruses have been found to cause various types of cancer in animals, including leukemia and lymphoma.
- The discovery of retroviruses led to a greater understanding of the mechanisms of viral replication and the development of antiretroviral therapies.
- Retroviruses can remain dormant in the host cell for extended periods, making them difficult to detect and treat.
- The use of retroviruses as vectors for gene therapy has shown promise in treating genetic disorders and other diseases.