The HIV Genome's Reliably High Rate of Change Permits It

question 73

Multiple Choice

The HIV genome's reliably high rate of change permits it to serve as a molecular clock. Which of these features is most responsible for this genome's high rate of change?

• A)the relatively low number of nucleotides in the genome
• B)the relatively small number of genes in the genome
• C)the genome's ability to insert itself into the genome of the host
• D)the lack of proofreading by the enzyme that converts HIV's RNA genome into a DNA genome

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Definitions:

Immature Sperm

Sperm cells that have not fully developed and are incapable of fertilizing an egg.

Seminal Vesicles

Glands in the male reproductive system that produce the majority of the fluid in semen.

Prostate Gland

A gland in the male reproductive system that produces components of semen.

Seminal Fluid

A biofluid that contains spermatozoa and is secreted by the male reproductive organs, facilitating transport and survival of sperm during reproduction.