Virus Replication Cycle

Study Notes

Replication Cycle of Viruses

The replication cycle of viruses is a complex process that involves several stages:

Attachment

The virus attaches to the host cell using its surface proteins (e.g., hemagglutinin in influenza)
The attachment is specific to the host cell and virus type

Penetration

The virus penetrates the host cell membrane using various mechanisms (e.g., endocytosis, membrane fusion)
The virus releases its genetic material (e.g., DNA, RNA) into the host cell

Uncoating

The virus releases its genetic material from the protein coat (capsid)
The genetic material is now free to interact with the host cell machinery

Transcription

The viral genetic material is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) using the host cell's machinery
The mRNA is translated into protein using the host cell's ribosomes

Translation

The viral mRNA is translated into protein using the host cell's ribosomes
The proteins are used to replicate the viral genome and assemble new viral particles

Replication

The viral genome is replicated using the host cell's machinery
The replicated genome is used to assemble new viral particles

Assembly

The viral proteins and genome are assembled into new viral particles
The assembly process is specific to the virus type

Release

The new viral particles are released from the host cell through lysis (cell death) or budding
The released viral particles can infect other host cells, repeating the replication cycle

Description

Learn about the complex process of virus replication, including attachment, penetration, uncoating, transcription, translation, replication, assembly, and release. Understand how viruses interact with host cells and replicate their genetic material.