Retroviridae

Retroviridae is a family of viruses characterized by their unique ability to insert their genetic material into the DNA of host cells. They contain RNA instead of DNA and use an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to convert their RNA into DNA once inside a cell. This allows the virus to integrate itself into the host's genome, potentially causing infections that can persist long-term. Well-known members include HIV, the virus responsible for AIDS. Retroviruses can infect humans, animals, and plants, and their ability to integrate into genomes makes them both powerful and challenging targets for treatment.