This
enzyme of the HIV
virus (and other retroviruses) converts the single-stranded viral
RNA into
DNA, the form in which the cell carries its genes. The
antiviral drugs approved in the US for the treatment of HIV infection-AZT, ddC and ddI-all work by interfering with this stage of the viral life cycle. See also
AZT; ddC; ddI;
DNA;
Ribonucleic Acid.