RpoB is involved in translating DNA into RNA. Both, like the genes for ribosomal RNA, are old and ubiquitous.

ECONOMIST: A new domain of life

Ribosomes are a key target for antibiotics, as antibiotics are able to attack the ribosomal activity of harmful bacteria while leaving human ribosomes untouched.

UNESCO: The UNESCO Courier

The process which the viruses employ is known as ribosomal frameshifting.

BBC: NEWS | Health | How HIV can sabotage human cells