Reverse transcriptase is an enzyme characteristic of retroviruses. The enzyme is RNA (Ribo nucleic acid) dependent DNA polymerase. Polymerases are enzymes which aid in polymerization of DNA (Deoxyribo Nucleic acid) or RNA during their synthesis. Typically, all cells contain DNA dependent DNA polymerase for replication of genome; and DNA dependent RNA polymerase for transcription of mRNA (messenger RNA).
However, retroviruses are unique in that they possess RNA dependent DNA polymerase. As the enzyme functions reverse to that of the central dogma of molecular biology, it is called reverse transcriptase.
• Reverse transcriptase catalyzes synthesis of DNA from RNA. Hence, option (b) is correct
• The enzyme is required for transposition of retrotransposons. Hence option (c) is correct.
Hence, the correct answer is (d) b and c are correct.
• Reverse transcriptase is not required for transposition of all types of DNA transposons. Hence, option (a) is not correct