Where Did Viruses Come From?

The video explores the nature and history of viruses, discussing their structure, evolution, and impact on life. It introduces paleovirology, a field that studies viral molecular fossils in host DNA to trace viral evolution. The video also examines different models of virus origins and debates whether viruses are alive, highlighting their unique position in the tree of life.

How does paleovirology help in understanding the evolution of viruses?

What is the current understanding of whether viruses are considered alive?

What are the characteristics that define life, and how do viruses fit into this definition?