Viruses

Front

What is a virus?

Back

A virus is a microscopic infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism.

Front

What is the basic structure of a virus?

Back

A virus consists of a nucleic acid strand (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat called a capsid.

Front

What is a capsid?

Back

A capsid is the protein shell of a virus that encases its genetic material.

Front

What is the difference between lytic and lysogenic cycles?

Back

In the lytic cycle, the virus immediately replicates and destroys the host cell. In the lysogenic cycle, the viral DNA integrates into the host's DNA and can remain dormant.

Front

What is viral genetic material?

Back

Viral genetic material can be either DNA or RNA, which carries the information necessary for the virus to replicate.

Front

What is the role of glycoproteins in viruses?

Back

Glycoproteins are molecules on the surface of viruses that help them attach to and enter host cells.

Front

How do viruses reproduce?

Back

Viruses reproduce by infecting a host cell and using the host's cellular machinery to replicate their genetic material and produce new virus particles.

Front

What is a bacteriophage?

Back

A bacteriophage is a type of virus that specifically infects bacteria.

Front

What is the significance of the viral envelope?

Back

The viral envelope, derived from the host cell membrane, helps the virus evade the host's immune system and facilitates entry into new host cells.

Front

What is the difference between DNA viruses and RNA viruses?

Back

DNA viruses use DNA as their genetic material, while RNA viruses use RNA. This affects their replication processes and mutation rates.