Q167 / 180 · NEET 2016 (Phase 2) · Zoology

Which of the following is correct regarding AIDS causative agent HIV?

  • A
    HIV is an enveloped virus containing one molecule of single-stranded RNA and one molecule of reverse transcriptase.
  • Correct answer
    B
    HIV is an enveloped virus that contains two identical molecules of single-stranded RNA and two molecules of reverse transcriptase.
  • C
    HIV is an unenveloped retrovirus.
  • D
    HIV does not escape but attacks the acquired immune response.

Solution

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) and interferes with the body's ability to fight infection. The HIV infects macrophages and TH cells and upon infection, it inactivates these cells and hence, suppresses the immune system.

The structure of the virus is such that it is enveloped with a viral envelope (consists of a bilipid layer and proteins) inside which two identical molecules of single-stranded RNA molecules and two molecules of reverse transcriptase are present. The reverse transcriptase enzyme generates viral DNA inside the host by using viral RNA as a template.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'B'.

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