Virology and Virus Classification
5 Questions
4 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the basic structure of a virion?

  • Nucleic acid genome surrounded by ribosomes
  • Nucleic acid genome packaged into a protein coat or a membrane (correct)
  • Nucleic acid genome enclosed in a cell membrane
  • Nucleic acid genome floating freely in the cytoplasm

    • Why are enveloped viruses unable to survive in the gastrointestinal tract?

  • They lack essential proteins for survival in the gut
  • They are unable to replicate without a host cell
  • They are too large to pass through the intestinal lining
  • Their envelope is susceptible to gastric acid and drying (correct)

    • What is the function of glycoprotein in viruses?

  • Basis of the identification of different viruses (correct)
  • Source of energy for viral replication
  • Aids in viral protein synthesis
  • Provides structural support to the capsid

    • What is the significance of (+) RNA in viral infections?

    <p>It directly allows for viral protein synthesis and infection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the capsid in a virion?

    <p>To enclose the nucleic acid genome and provide protection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Basic Structure of a Virion

    • A virion consists of genetic material (DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protein coat called a capsid.
    • The capsid is made up of protein subunits known as capsomers, which protect the viral genome.
    • Some virions have an outer lipid envelope derived from the host cell membrane, containing viral glycoproteins.

    Enveloped Viruses and Gastrointestinal Survival

    • Enveloped viruses are sensitive to environmental factors, including detergents and solvents.
    • The lipid envelope can be damaged by bile salts and acidic conditions present in the gastrointestinal tract.
    • As a result, enveloped viruses are typically unable to survive and infect within the gastrointestinal environment.

    Function of Glycoproteins in Viruses

    • Glycoproteins are located on the surface of viral envelopes and play a crucial role in the virus's ability to infect host cells.
    • They facilitate the attachment of the virus to specific receptors on the surface of host cells, initiating infection.
    • Glycoproteins can also induce immune responses, evading detection by the host's immune system.

    Significance of (+) RNA in Viral Infections

    • (+) RNA serves as the viral genome that can be directly translated into proteins by the host's ribosomes.
    • It allows for faster replication and production of viral proteins compared to (-) RNA, which must first be converted into a positive strand.
    • Infections caused by (+) RNA viruses typically lead to rapid onset and spread of disease.

    Primary Function of the Capsid in a Virion

    • The capsid protects the viral genetic material from degradation by environmental factors and host immune responses.
    • It aids in the delivery of the viral genome into host cells during infection.
    • The structure of the capsid can determine the virus's shape and influence its pathogenicity.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Description

    Test your knowledge of virology and virus classification with this quiz. Learn about the definition, properties, and classification of viruses, including their structure, genomes, and replication process.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Open
    Browser
    Browser