Then describe and explain with detail how viruses replicate. Be sure to describe where these events are occurring, which structures are involved and be as detailed as you can.
Then describe and explain with detail how viruses replicate. Be sure to describe where these events are occurring, which structures are involved and be as detailed as you can.
When a cell divides, it duplicates all of its components and divides in two. But the production of new viruses (viral replication) is quite different from cell division. A cell infected with a virus (Eg. bacteriophage) may produce and release hundreds or thousands of new viral particles.
Basic processes occur during viral infection are as follows:
Attachment: A virus attaches to a host cell by recognizing a receptor molecule present on the surface of the host cell. Usually, the virus can attach only to a cell within which it can reproduce (host specificity).
Penetration: The viral genetic material (DNA or RNA) can enter the cell in several ways. Viruses that infect bacteria can insert their genetic material through a hole in the cell wall. This hole resembles a syringe.
Synthesis: The viral genome then attaches to the host cell which in turn, produces multiple copies of the viral genome. Besides, the information encoded in viral DNA is used to produce viral proteins. The host cell provides all of the resources required for the production of new viruses such as ATP, ribosomes, nucleotides, tRNA, amino acids, and enzymes. Mutations during this stage are the raw material for viral evolution.
Assembly: The subunits of the protein coat join, and then genetic information is packed inside.
Release: Once the virus particles are assembled, they exit the cell. Some bacteriophages induce the production of an enzyme that breaks down the cell wall of the host. As the enzyme kills the cell, it releases the viruses.
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