A lentiviral vector is used in gene therapy to deliver a functional copy of a gene into a patient's hematopoietic stem cells. What is the essential enzymatic step that allows the lentiviral DNA to integrate into the host cell genome?
- A Reverse transcription of RNA to DNA
- B Integration of viral DNA by integrase ✓
- C Transcription of viral RNA
- D Translation of viral proteins
Correct answer: B. Integration of viral DNA by integrase
Explanation
Lentiviral vectors integrate their DNA into the host genome using the viral enzyme integrase, ensuring stable long-term gene expression. Reverse transcriptase converts the viral RNA genome into DNA prior to integration, but integration itself is mediated by integrase.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.