INFECTIOUS AGENTS - Viruses Flashcards
What are the three basic virus structural components?
Genome
Capsid
Envelope
What is the collective name for the viral genome and capsid?
Nucleocapsid
What is the function of the viral genome?
Codes for proteins required for replication and interaction with the host cell
Describe the different possible structures of viral genetic material
DNA or RNA genomes
Single or double stranded
Linear or circular
Segmented or non-segmented
Where are viral envelopes derived from?
Virus envelopes are derived from the lipid bilayer of the virus’ host cell
What is the function of the capsid and envelope surrounding a virus?
- Protection of the genome
- Facilitates the binding and entry of viruses into host cells
What are the two main groups of virus symmetry?
Icosahedral symmetry
Helical symmetry
Describe icosahedral symmetry
The viral genome is packaged within an icosahedral capsid
Describe helical symmetry
Capsid proteins wind around the viral genome
What are all helical viruses relevant to veterinary medicine surrounded by?
Envelope
What are the advantages of virus symmetry?
- Economy: viral symmetry means fewer genes are required for the virus to function so the viral genome can be more compact
- Redundancy: viral symmetry makes it more probable that if a virus is attacked more of the genes will survive for future replication
Describe the first step of virus replication (attachment)
- The virus attaches to the host cell through interactions between host cellular receptors and virus antireceptors
- Penetration of the virus into the cell via receptor mediated endocytosis; fusion; or translocation
- Uncoating of the virus
Describe the second step of virus replication (gene expression and genome replication) for DNA viruses
DNA VIRUSES:
DNA viruses tend to replicate in the host cell nucleus so need to replicate in actively dividing cells with a nucleus
Describe the second step of virus replication (gene expression and genome replication) for RNA viruses
RNA VIRUSES:
RNA viruses tend to replicate in the host cell cytoplasm and also have to encode for their own RNA polymerase in order to replicate
Describe the third step of virus replication (assembly and exit)
Viruses are released from the host cell through budding, host cell lysis or exocytosis
List six of the mechanisms that a virus can use to damage host cells
Inhibition of host cell nucleic acid synthesis
Inhibition of host cell transcription
Inhibition of host cell protein synthesis
Damage to the host cell membrane
Induction of apoptosis
Altered gene expression
What are some of the common routes of entry for a virus into the host?
Respiratory tract
Ingestion (gastrointestinal tract)
Skin trauma
Urogenital tract
Conjunctiva
What is tissue tropism?
Tissue tropism is the species of animal and types of cells that a virus infects