The correct answer is D: a provirus is a viral DNA incorporated into the host cell's DNA.
A provirus refers to the DNA form of a virus that has integrated into the genome of the host cell. It is mainly associated with certain types of viruses, such as retroviruses. This integration occurs through the action of reverse transcriptase, an enzyme that converts the viral RNA into DNA. Upon integration, the provirus becomes a permanent resident in the host cell's genome.
On the other hand, viral DNA generally refers to the genetic material of a virus, which can come in various forms, such as single-stranded or double-stranded DNA. Viral DNA can exist outside the host cell as an extrachromosomal element or be integrated into the host cell's genome. However, viral DNA is not always referred to as a provirus, as this term specifically indicates the integration of viral DNA into the host cell's DNA.
compare and contrast a provirus and viral DNA
A: a provirus is newly replicated viral DNA after injection
B: a provirus is bacterial DNA incorporated into the viral DNA
C: a provirus is the host cells DNA that has been destroyed
D: a provirus is a viral DNA incorporated into the host cells DNA
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