HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is different from most viruses such as influenza or the common cold in several ways, primarily due to its unique replication process and the type of cells it targets. The correct statement from your options is:
It copies the information for reproduction from RNA to DNA.
HIV is a retrovirus, which means it has RNA as its genetic material and uses an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to convert this RNA into DNA after it infects a host cell. This DNA then integrates into the host's genome, allowing the virus to replicate alongside the host cell's DNA.
In contrast, most other viruses, such as those causing influenza or the common cold (which are typically RNA viruses), do not have this RNA-to-DNA conversion process.
The other options you've provided are not accurate characterizations of HIV:
- HIV targets and destroys CD4 T cells, which are crucial components of the immune system, not red blood cells.
- HIV does not specifically attack neurons; it primarily affects the immune system.
- While HIV can be transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, it does not have viral DNA that is spread through indirect contact; it typically requires direct contact with blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk from an infected individual.
Therefore, the unique aspect of HIV as a retrovirus is its process of copying its RNA into DNA for replication.