Viral Structure Flashcards
1
Q
What is a virus?
A
A virus is a microscopic intercellular parasitic organisms that infects other organisms
E.g cold, herpes, HIV
2
Q
What do viruses require?
A
They require a host
3
Q
What do viruses do?
A
Viruses replicate inside body cells and destroy them
4
Q
What do ALL viruses have?
A
Nucleic acid (DNA or RNA)
Capsid
Attachment proteins
5
Q
What does a capsid do?
A
Protein coat which protects genetic material
6
Q
What are attachment proteins for?
A
They attach viruses to host cells
7
Q
What do SOME viruses have?
A
An envelope
An outer phospholipid membrane surrounding the capsule
