What is the mechanism of action for integrase inhibitors?

Integrase inhibitors are a class of antiretroviral medications that specifically target and inhibit the enzyme integrase, which plays a critical role in the lifecycle of retroviruses, particularly HIV. The primary mechanism of action for these inhibitors is to prevent integrase from facilitating the integration of viral DNA into the host cell's DNA. This integration is a crucial step for the viral replication process, as it allows the viral genome to be incorporated into the host's cellular machinery, leading to the production of new viral particles. By blocking this interaction, integrase inhibitors effectively halt the progression of the viral lifecycle, thereby reducing the viral load in the patient's body and helping to manage the infection. This is why the identified choice accurately describes the mechanism of action for integrase inhibitors.