Retroviruses are RNA viruses that contain reverse transcriptase, allowing them to use RNA as a template to transcribe DNA. They can cause cancer and viral infections, including HIV/AIDS. They are prone to mutations and resistant to antibiotics, but can be prevented through hand washing and physical barriers. Developing effective vaccines can take years.
Retroviruses belong to the Retroviridae family of viruses. Their genetic material is made up of ribonucleic acid (RNA), rather than deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Viruses of this type also contain reverse transcriptase. Retroviruses are known to lead to certain types of cancer in both humans and animals, as well as a variety of viral infections. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), is one example.
These viruses are unique in that they reproduce by transcription in DNA. Reverse transcriptase, an enzyme within a retrovirus, allows RNA to serve as a template for the transcription process. Once transcribed, the viral DNA gains access to a cell’s DNA, reproducing itself along with the cell and its offspring. Within the cell’s progeny, called daughter cells, the viral DNA creates RNA replicas of itself. Finally, these replicas leave the daughter cells after coating themselves with a protein.
Retroviruses reverse the normal cellular process, which uses RNA to synthesize DNA. By reversing this process, they take up permanent residence in the genetic material of the infected cell. In some cases, these viruses destroy the cells they change; this is the case with HIV. Others cause cells to become cancerous. This is what occurs with some types of leukemia.
Viruses of this family are prone to mutations and, for this reason, often become resistant to antiviral drugs in a relatively short period of time. This level of mutability is one reason cited for the difficulties scientists face in trying to develop a safe and effective HIV vaccine.
Antibiotics are not effective against retroviruses. They are useful for fighting bacterial infections, but are useless against viruses. Instead, antiviral drugs must be developed and used to combat them. Vaccination can be used to prevent diseases caused by viruses, including retroviruses. Unfortunately, developing effective vaccines is complicated work that can take years, or even generations, to complete.
Despite the fact that retroviruses are implicated in some life-threatening diseases, they are vulnerable to something as simple as ordinary soap and water. Hand washing can make them inactive. Physical barriers can also be helpful in preventing its spread. Such barriers include condoms, rubber gloves and face masks.
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