What is the function of reverse transcriptase?

Reverse transcriptase (RT) is a multifunctional DNA polymerase enzyme that is responsible for transcribing single-stranded RNA into double-stranded DNA. In retroviruses, the enzyme allows the virus to insert its DNA to the DNA of the host cell, which forces the host cell to produce more viruses. In cells, reverse transcriptase plays a role in genetic diversity and in the aging process in eukaryotic cells.