Bacteriophages Are a DNA Virus-Their Genetic Material Is DNA

Essay

Bacteriophages are a DNA virus-their genetic material is DNA.In contrast, for some other types of viruses, RNA is the genetic material.Once it has entered a cell, one group of RNA viruses, which includes retroviruses, reverse transcribes the RNA into DNA using the enzyme reverse transcriptase.This protein is found bound to the viral RNA molecule.Suppose Hershey and Chase had unknowingly used a retrovirus for their classic blender experiment.Where would most of the ³²P and the ³⁵S be found at the conclusion of the experiment?