🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

A new antiviral drug is developed that specifically targets the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase enzyme. This drug would be most effective against which of the following types of viruses?

A DNA viruses that replicate in the nucleus.
B Retroviruses that integrate into the host genome.
C Positive-sense RNA viruses that use host ribosomes directly.
D Negative-sense RNA viruses that carry their own RNA polymerase.

✓ Correct Answer: Option D

Negative-sense RNA viruses must carry their own RNA-dependent RNA polymerase because their genome cannot be directly translated into protein. This enzyme is crucial for synthesizing mRNA from their genomic RNA.

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