Viral Classification and Lifecycle Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the main reason why RNA viruses mutate more frequently?

They have a more stable genomic structure

They are enveloped viruses

They have evolved from common ancestors

They use enzymes that make more errors during replication (correct)

In viral classification, what is one of the ways viruses can be classified?

Host cell color preference

Capsid structure (correct)

Metabolic activity

Genomic age

What is the key step in a virus's lifecycle where receptors on the host cell bind to virus capsid proteins or envelope glycoproteins?

Assembly

Release/egress

Replication

Attachment (correct)

Which process in the virus lifecycle involves synthesis of viral proteins and genome by the host cell?

Assembly Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between the Regressive hypothesis and the Progressive hypothesis?

The Regressive hypothesis proposes devolution from free-living cells, while the Progressive hypothesis suggests nucleic acid molecules escaping from cells. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of the capsid structure of viruses?

The capsid can either be helical, icosahedral, or head-tail in shape. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the genome of a virus?

Virus genomes may be single-stranded or double-stranded, circular or linear, and in one piece or in multiple segments. Signup and view all the answers

What role do DNA and RNA play in directing host cells during a viral infection?

DNA directs the host cell to produce new virus copies, using the same genetic code as all living organisms. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of the lytic cycle of bacteriophages?

Phage uses bacterium for viral replication Signup and view all the answers

Which type of viral reproduction does not involve host cell death?

Budding Signup and view all the answers

What is a unique feature of bacteriophages' lifecycles, such as T4?

They alternate between lytic and lysogenic cycles Signup and view all the answers

Which virus causes AIDS and uses reverse transcriptase for its replication?

HIV Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mode of transmission for plant viruses according to the text?

Transmission through damaged plant tissue Signup and view all the answers

In the context of viral infection, what distinguishes acute diseases from chronic infections?

Rapid onset and short duration Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Mutation Frequency of RNA Viruses

RNA viruses mutate more frequently due to a higher error rate in RNA-dependent RNA polymerase during replication.

Classification of Viruses

Viruses can be classified based on structure, such as enveloped vs. non-enveloped, or by type of nucleic acid (DNA or RNA).

Virus Lifecycle Step

The binding of receptors on the host cell to virus capsid proteins or envelope glycoproteins is a crucial step called attachment.

Viral Protein Synthesis

The process of synthesis of viral proteins and genomes occurs during the replication phase of the virus's lifecycle, leveraging the host cell's machinery.

Hypotheses of Virus Evolution

The Regressive hypothesis suggests viruses are remnants of more complex organisms, while the Progressive hypothesis posits viruses evolved from self-replicating entities.

Capsid Structure

A key characteristic of the capsid structure in viruses is that it provides protection for viral genetic material and assists in the delivery of the genome into host cells.

Viral Genome Description

The genome of a virus is composed of either DNA or RNA, which carries the instructions for producing viral components.

Role of DNA and RNA in Infection

DNA and RNA direct host cells to produce viral proteins and replicate viral genomes during a viral infection, facilitating the virus's proliferation.

Lytic Cycle Characteristics

The lytic cycle of bacteriophages is characterized by the destruction of the host cell and the release of new viral particles.

Atypical Viral Reproduction

Lysogenic replication is a type of viral reproduction that does not involve the immediate death of the host cell, as the viral genome integrates into the host's genome.

Unique Feature of Bacteriophages

Bacteriophages, like T4, possess a complex structure with tail fibers that facilitate attachment to specific bacterial hosts.

Virus Causing AIDS

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is known for causing AIDS and employs reverse transcriptase for replication, converting its RNA genome into DNA.

Transmission of Plant Viruses

The primary mode of transmission for plant viruses typically occurs through mechanical means, such as physical contact or insect vectors.

Acute vs. Chronic Viral Infections

Acute diseases arise suddenly with severe symptoms but are often short-lived, while chronic infections persist over a longer time with milder symptoms.

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Description

Test your knowledge on viral classification challenges, capsid structure, genomic structure, and the steps of a virus lifecycle. Learn about how RNA viruses mutate frequently and the ways viruses are classified based on their structure and genetic material.