Reverse Transcriptase

A DNA polymerase enzyme that transcribes single-stranded RNA into double-stranded DNA which is then integrated into the host genome by integrase proteins.  This process is the reverse of normal transcription.

The retroviral vectors (retroviruses) are genetically engineered by scientists to encapsulate and deliver reverse transcriptase, intergrase and the four reprogramming factors, Oct-4, SOX2, c-Myc, Klf-4 into the fibroblasts to reprogram them into induced pluripotent stem cells.  These transgenes are then reverse transcribed from RNA into DNA by the enzyme reverse transcriptase and finally integrated into the host’s genome by integrase proteins.