6 Questions
Are viruses considered living organisms?
No
What is the primary genetic material found in viruses?
Both DNA and RNA
Viruses replicate outside of host cells.
False
What is the primary mode of transmission for the Hepatitis A virus?
Fecal-oral route
Viruses are obligate __________, depending on host cells to replicate and reproduce.
parasites
Match the following virus types with their respective genetic content:
Single-stranded DNA viruses = Picornavirus, Parvovirus Double-stranded DNA viruses = Adenovirus, Herpes virus Double-stranded RNA viruses = Reovirus Single-stranded RNA viruses = +RNA: Influenza virus, Poliovirus; -RNA: Hepatitis A virus, Rabies virus
Study Notes
Characteristics of Viruses
- Viruses are microscopic, infectious agents that replicate inside living host cells
- They are non-living, lacking the ability to carry out metabolic processes, grow, or respond to stimuli
- Viruses contain either DNA or RNA, protected by a protein coat (capsid)
- Few viruses are protected by a host cell membrane
- They are obligate intracellular parasites, depending on host cells to replicate and reproduce
- Viruses infect specific host cells, with each virus having a specific range of host species and targeting specific cell types
- They reproduce by attaching to host cells, penetrating the host cell membrane, replicating viral genetic particles, assembling new viral particles, and releasing new viral particles from the host cell
Classification of Viruses
- Core content: based on the type of genetic material (ssDNA, dsDNA, dsRNA, ssRNA)
- Shape: radial symmetry, cubical or icosahedral symmetry, rod or spiral shaped, complex
- Mode of replication: cytoplasm, nucleus and cytoplasm, nucleus
- Host: animal cells, plant cells, bacterial cells, insect cells
- Mode of transmission: airborne, contaminated water/food, sexual, blood transfusion, insect bites
Additional Facts
- Viruses exist everywhere, infect all living things, and are necessary evils in our lives
- Viruses are not just messengers of bad news, as many do not carry any disease
- DNA-Polyomavirus aids tracking of human migration
- Viruses have high mutation rates and genetic recombination, impacting the effectiveness of vaccines and antiviral treatments
- Host cells' antibodies and immune cells neutralize the virus and clear infection
- Vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce specific antibodies against viruses without causing disease
Discover the basics of viruses, including their structure, existence, and impact on living things. Learn about the different types of viruses and their effects on the planet.
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