Viruses and Subviral Particles

Question 1

In viruses, what is its nucleic acid? Is it double or single-stranded?

Answer 1

Both RNA and DNA and can be either single- or double-stranded.

Question 2

What happens during the lytic cycle?

Answer 2

The virus’s DNA takes control of the host cell’s genetic machinery, manufacturing numerous progeny. In return, the host cell lyses (bursts) and releases new virions, which are capable of infecting other cells.

Question 3

What happens during the lysogenic cycle?

Answer 3

Viral DNA is added to the host cell’s genome where is can lay dormant for days to years. It can be released and enter the lytic cycle spontaneously or influenced by environmental circumstances.

Question 4

What are the features of a bacteriophage?

Answer 4

They contain a tail sheath and tail fibers. These do NOT infect the human nervous system but instead infect bacteria ONLY.

Question 5

What does DNA viruses need in order for proteins to be synthesized?

Answer 5

It requires transport to the nucleus that requires nuclear RNA polymerase in order to create mRNA that can be translated to protein.