Viral Replication Process Quiz

Viral Replication and Structure

• Biosynthesis of Viral Components: Occurs during the replication phase, where the virus hijacks the host's cellular machinery to produce viral proteins and RNA or DNA components.
• Attachment (Adsorption): Takes place at the very beginning of the viral replication process when the virus binds to specific receptors on the host cell's surface.
• Penetration: The stage in which the virus enters the host cell, occurring after attachment, typically through mechanisms like fusion or endocytosis.

Virology and Virus Structure

• Study of Viruses: Known as virology, a branch of microbiology focused on the properties and effects of viruses.
• Size Range of Viruses: Generally vary from 20 to 300 nanometers in diameter, making them smaller than most bacteria and eukaryotic cells.
• Capsid Function: The capsid is a protein shell that protects the viral genetic material and aids in the infectivity of the virus by facilitating attachment and penetration into host cells.

Viral Types and Components

• Enveloped Virus: A type of virus that has a lipid membrane surrounding its capsid, derived from the host cell membrane, which helps in evading the immune response.
• Role of Nucleoproteins: Nucleoproteins stabilize and protect viral RNA or DNA and play crucial roles in the assembly and release of new viral particles within the host.