Unit 3B: Basics of Life - Requirements of Viruses Flashcards
What is a virus?
A virus is a microscopic infectious agent that contains genetic material surrounded by a protein coat, and can only replicate inside a host cell.
Are viruses alive?
NO!
What are the basic components of viruses?
Genetic material, capsid, glycoproteins (spikes), and envelope.
What genetic material do viruses have?
DNA or RNA
What is a capside?
A capsid is a protein coat that protects the genetic material of the virus.
What is an envelope?
A lipid layer derived from the host cell membrane.
What are glycoproteins (spikes)?
They help the virus attach to host cells
What affects how a virus infects its host?
The shape of the virus
What are the most common viral shapes?
Spherical or hexaggonal
What infects bacteria?
Bacteriophages
What is the lytic cycle?
A virus hijacks the host cell, makes copies, and bursts the cell.
What are the steps of the lytic cycle?
Attachment, entry, replication, assembly, and lysis and release.
What is the lysogenic phase?
Virus integrates into the host genome and remains dormant before becoming active.
What is an example of the lytic cycle?
Influenza, COVID-19, and many bacteriophages are all examples of the lytic cycle.
What are some examples of the lysogenic phase?
HIV and herpesviruses
