virus structure

Front

What is the lytic cycle?

Back

The lytic cycle is a viral reproductive process where the virus infects a host cell, replicates its genetic material, assembles new virus particles, and ultimately causes the host cell to burst, releasing new viruses.

Front

What is the lysogenic cycle?

Back

The lysogenic cycle is a viral reproductive process where the virus integrates its genetic material into the host cell's DNA, allowing it to replicate along with the host cell without immediately destroying it.

Front

What is a bacteriophage?

Back

A bacteriophage is a type of virus that specifically infects bacteria, often having a complex structure with a head and tail.

Front

What is an enveloped virus?

Back

An enveloped virus is a virus that has an outer lipid membrane, which is derived from the host cell membrane, making it more sensitive to environmental conditions.

Front

What is a polyhedral virus?

Back

A polyhedral virus is a virus with a geometric shape, typically having a capsid that forms a polyhedron, such as the adenovirus.

Front

What is a helical virus?

Back

A helical virus is a virus with a cylindrical shape, where the capsid proteins are arranged in a spiral around the viral RNA or DNA, such as the tobacco mosaic virus.

Front

What is a host in the context of viruses?

Back

A host is an organism that a virus infects and uses to reproduce, providing the necessary cellular machinery for viral replication.

Front

What is the difference between the lytic and lysogenic cycles?

Back

The lytic cycle results in the immediate destruction of the host cell, while the lysogenic cycle allows the virus to remain dormant within the host cell's DNA.

Front

What role do viral proteins play in the infection process?

Back

Viral proteins help the virus attach to and enter host cells, and they are also involved in the replication and assembly of new virus particles.

Front

What is the significance of viral envelopes?

Back

Viral envelopes play a crucial role in the infection process by helping the virus enter host cells and evade the host's immune response.