L50. Viruses and Prions Flashcards
1
Q
Describe 2 features of a virus.
A
They are smaller than blood cells and bacteria and are made of either DNA or RNA.
2
Q
What do/don’t viruses have?
A
Don’t have ribosomes for protein synthesis but some do have some enzymes.
3
Q
What is the complete virus particle called?
A
Virion
4
Q
What 2 features do virions often show?
A
Capsid protein shell lipid membrane (envelope)
5
Q
What are capsomers?
A
The protein units which make up the capsid.
6
Q
Name 3 methods of virus transmission.
A
- Congenital (mother to baby)
- Inhalation (respiratory)
- Ingestion (gastrointestinal)
7
Q
Give the names and describe 3 effects of the virus.
A
- Cell death - cytopathic
- transformation - cell is not killed but it is changed to a cancerous cell
- latent infection - virus remains in the cell with no obvious effect on cell function.
8
Q
Describe the influenza virus.
A
RNA virus which can be type A, B or C
9
Q
What was CJD?
A
A prion-causing disease
