Which type of RNA virus can use its RNA as a template to produce DNA?

• A. Reovirus
• B. Togavirus
• C. Retrovirus
• D. Picornavirus

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the central dogma of molecular biology, which states that genetic information flows from DNA to RNA to protein. However, some viruses can reverse this flow by converting RNA back into DNA.
2. Identify the types of RNA viruses listed: Reovirus, Togavirus, Retrovirus, and Picornavirus. Note that most RNA viruses replicate their RNA directly or through an RNA intermediate.
3. Recall that Retroviruses are unique because they carry an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which allows them to use their RNA genome as a template to synthesize complementary DNA (cDNA).
4. Recognize that this DNA is then integrated into the host cell's genome, allowing the virus to replicate using the host's machinery.
5. Conclude that among the options given, Retrovirus is the type of RNA virus capable of using its RNA as a template to produce DNA.