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reverse transcriptase |
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reverse transcriptase /re·verse tran·scrip·tase/ (re-vers´ tran-skrip´tās) an enzyme that catalyzes the template-directed, step-by-step addition of deoxyribonucleotides to the end of a DNA or RNA primer or growing DNA chain, using a single-stranded RNA template; it occurs in retroviruses and the DNA formed is an intermediate in the formation of progeny RNA.
reverse transcriptase (RT) [revers′tran-skrip′tās] an enzyme of RNA viruses that catalyzes the transcription of RNA to DNA, which is then incorporated into the genome of the host cell. This is the reverse of the usual mechanism for replication of genetic information; in the presence of this enzyme, it is the RNA that serves as the template for DNA copies. It is one mechanism by which reproduction of cancer cells is facilitated. Also called RNA-dependent DNA polymerase. See also retrovirus. reverse transcriptase (transkrip´-tās), n an enzyme within a retrovirus that converts its ribonucleic acid into deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which then penetrates the cell nucleus and joins the host's DNA. reverse transcriptase see reverse transcriptase. How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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spectroscopy, and small-angle X-ray-scattering techniques, they can reveal the makeup of molecules and materials as diverse as the human cold virus, the enzyme HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, some high-temperature superconductors, and many crystals. The first gene silenced codes for the enzyme, HIV-1 reverse transcriptase, which is used by the virus to convert its RNA into DNA, which can then be incorporated into the genome of the infected human host. One study, which analyzed the crystal structure of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase bound to tenofovir, revealed that the unique acyclic chemical structure of tenofovir might contribute to the infrequency of cross-resitance and resistance development. |
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