The process of reverse transcription was discovered by

Options

A. Temin and Baltimore
B. Watson and Crick
C. Alfred Hershey
D. None of the above

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Reverse Transcription**: Reverse transcription is the process through which DNA is synthesized from an RNA template. This is the opposite of the normal transcription process where RNA is synthesized from a DNA template.

2. **Identifying the Key Components**: In reverse transcription, the RNA template is typically mRNA (messenger RNA), and the product is cDNA (complementary DNA). This process is crucial for certain viruses, particularly retroviruses, which can convert their RNA genome into DNA.

3. **Historical Context**: The discovery of reverse transcription is significant in molecular biology, particularly in understanding how retroviruses operate. Retroviruses can integrate their genetic material into the host's DNA, which can lead to various diseases, including certain types of cancer and HIV/AIDS.

4. **Discoverers of Reverse Transcription**: The process of reverse transcription was discovered by two scientists, David Baltimore and Howard Temin, in 1975. They identified the enzyme responsible for this process, known as reverse transcriptase (RT).

5. **Distinguishing Other Scientists**: It is important to note that other notable scientists mentioned, such as Watson and Crick, are known for their discovery of the double helical structure of DNA in 1953, and Alfred Hershey is recognized for his work on the genetic material in bacteria in 1946. However, they are not associated with the discovery of reverse transcription.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question of who discovered the process of reverse transcription is David Baltimore and Howard Temin.

**Final Answer**: The process of reverse transcription was discovered by David Baltimore and Howard Temin in 1975.

---