How does reverse transcriptase help HIV reproduce inside a host cell?

HIV is a retrovirus that carries its genetic information in the form of RNA rather than DNA. Because the virus cannot replicate on its own, it relies on the host cell's machinery to produce new viral particles.12

Once HIV enters a host helper T cell, the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase catalyzes the conversion of the viral RNA genome into a double-stranded DNA copy. This process, known as reverse transcription, is essential because it allows the viral genetic information to be integrated into the host cell's own DNA. Once this DNA provirus is successfully inserted into the host genome, the cell begins to transcribe the viral genes, leading to the production of new viral RNA and proteins that assemble into new virus particles.12

Notably, reverse transcriptase lacks a proofreading function, which leads to frequent mutations during replication. This rapid evolution helps the virus evade the immune system and resist antiretroviral drugs.2