Double-stranded viral DNA is incorporated into a host cell as a _____.

• A. viroid
• B. prion
• C. provirus
• D. plasmid

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: When a double-stranded viral DNA enters a host cell, it integrates into the host's genome or exists in a form that allows it to persist and replicate within the host.
2. Recall definitions: A 'viroid' is a small infectious RNA molecule without a protein coat, and a 'prion' is an infectious protein, neither of which involve double-stranded DNA.
3. Consider 'plasmid': Plasmids are circular DNA molecules found in bacteria that replicate independently, but viral DNA integration into a host genome is different from plasmid replication.
4. Identify the term for viral DNA integrated into the host genome: This integrated viral DNA is called a 'provirus', which can remain latent or be transcribed to produce new viruses.
5. Conclude that the correct term for double-stranded viral DNA incorporated into a host cell is 'provirus'.