Understanding Viruses: Key Characteristics

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following characteristics is unique to viruses compared to bacteria, archaea, fungi, and protists?

  • Capacity to evolve and adapt.
  • Presence of a nucleic acid genome.
  • Obligate intracellular parasitism. (correct)
  • Ability to reproduce asexually.

What is the primary function of the viral capsid?

  • To integrate the viral genome into the host cell DNA.
  • To synthesize viral proteins.
  • To provide energy for viral replication.
  • To protect the viral genome. (correct)

Why is the classification of viruses more complex than the classification of bacteria?

  • Viruses have a faster replication rate, leading to more mutations.
  • Viruses are larger in size and have more complex cellular structures.
  • Viruses can only be classified based on their host range.
  • Viruses lack a consistent set of characteristics, such as a common ancestor or cellular machinery. (correct)

What is the function of reverse transcriptase in retroviruses?

<p>To synthesize DNA from viral RNA. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key difference between acute and chronic viral infections?

<p>Acute infections involve a rapid onset and short duration, while chronic infections persist for a long time. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of viral glycoproteins found on the envelope of some viruses?

<p>They aid in attachment to and entry into host cells. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which method would be most effective for directly visualizing viral particles?

<p>Electron microscopy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do vaccines protect against viral infections?

<p>By stimulating the host's immune system to produce antibodies and immune cells. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding virology important for biotechnology?

<p>Viruses can be used as vectors for gene therapy. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which viral family is known for causing influenza?

<p>Orthomyxoviridae (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Viruses

Acellular entities composed of nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protein coat (capsid).

Virology

The study of viruses, their structure, replication, and interactions with host organisms.

Virion

A virus particle, consisting of a nucleic acid genome (DNA or RNA), a protein capsid, and sometimes a lipid envelope.

Capsid

Protein coat enclosing the viral nucleic acid.

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Capsomeres

Protein subunits that make up the capsid.

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Viral Replication

Attachment to the host cell, penetration, uncoating, replication, assembly, and release.

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Reverse Transcriptase

Enzyme used by retroviruses to convert RNA into DNA.

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Baltimore Classification

Classification system based on genome type and replication strategy.

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Vaccines

Stimulating the host's immune response against specific viruses.

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Antiviral Drugs

Inhibit viral replication or other viral processes.

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Study Notes

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