6.1 Viruses Flashcards
What are viruses?
small, non-cellular particles that cannot replicate unless inside of a living host cell
What are viruses considered?
obligate intracellular parasites
What are the two basic components all viruses have?
- genomic material composed of either RNA or DNA
- capsid
What is the capsid?
membrane-like protective structure that contains genetic material
What do viral genomes look like?
DNA or RNA
single or double stranded
linear or circular
What is the viral envelope?
additional membrane that surrounds the capsid
Where is the viral envelope derived from?
host cell membrane
What is the function of the viral envelope?
additional barrier to the external environment
What is a naked virus?
one lacking an envelope
Which viruses are mainly enveloped?
animal viruses
Which viruses are mainly non-enveloped/naked?
bacterial and plant
What is the distinct capsid of a smallpox virus?
dumbbell shaped
What is the best microscope to observe differences in viral structure and shape?
electron microscope
What is the causative agent of measles and mumps?
paramyxoviruses
