HIV causes the serious disease AIDS yet it has a fascinating life cycle that can be used to teach many key concepts in molecular biology.
With this model your students will see how the virus uses parts of the infected cells protein synthesis machinery to replicate itself. Using real DNA sequence, the crucial steps of reverse transcription and integration into the host cells genome are modelled. Covers first strand synthesis, self priming, second strand synthesis.
Suitable as a small group activity.
Time required: 25 minutes.
All components are reusable. Includes full instructions and lesson plan.