lysogenic cycle Flashcards
What is a temperate virus in the context of the lysogenic cycle?
A temperate virus causes minimal harm to the host and integrates its DNA into the host’s genome, remaining undetectable as a prophage.
How does the lysogenic cycle differ from the lytic cycle in terms of viral impact on the host?
In the lysogenic cycle, the virus remains dormant in the host DNA as a prophage and does not kill the host, whereas the lytic cycle results in the destruction of the host cell.
What is a prophage?
A prophage is the viral DNA that has been integrated into the host cell’s DNA during the lysogenic cycle, remaining inactive.
How is the prophage inherited in the lysogenic cycle?
The prophage is inherited by the host cell’s daughter cells during cell division, but it does not spread unless activated.
What can trigger a temperate virus to switch from the lysogenic cycle to the lytic cycle?
The prophage can switch to the lytic cycle if it is activated by internal or external stimuli.
How can a lysogenic virus benefit its host?
The lysogenic virus can benefit the host by contributing genes from previous hosts, increasing genetic diversity and aiding in the host’s evolution.
What role does the lysogenic cycle play in genetic diversity?
By integrating viral genes into the host DNA, the lysogenic cycle can contribute to genetic variation and facilitate evolution in the host organism.