Consider the following statements:
1. Adenoviruses have single-stranded DNA genomes whereas retroviruses have double-stranded DNA genomes.
2. Common cold is sometimes caused by an adenovirus whereas AIDS is caused by a retrovirus.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect: The genome assignments are reversed and structurally inaccurate:
– Adenoviruses possess a non-enveloped, linear double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genome.
– Retroviruses (such as HIV) possess an enveloped, single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) genome that utilizes reverse transcriptase enzyme to transcribe its RNA into viral DNA within the host cell, not a double-stranded DNA genome.
Statement 2 is correct: Adenoviruses are well-documented etiologic agents of respiratory tract infections, including pharyngitis, conjunctivitis, and the common cold (alongside rhinoviruses). Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which is a classic retrovirus.
Therefore, only statement 2 is correct — Option B.