Viruses 1. contain both protein and nucleic acid. 2. infect...

Viruses
1. contain both protein and nucleic acid.
2. infect all domains of life.
3. can grow in the absence of living cells.
4. are generally the same size as prokaryotes.
5. always kill the cells they infect.
a) 1,2
b) 2,3
c) 3,4
d) 4,5
e) 1,5

Key Concepts

Virus-Host Interactions

The interaction between viruses and their host cells is complex and can result in a variety of outcomes. While some viruses lead to immediate lysis of the host cell, others may integrate into the host genome or establish persistent, non-lethal infections, reflecting a spectrum of pathogenic strategies.

Virus Size

Although viruses vary widely in size, most are considerably smaller than prokaryotic cells. While there are exceptions with some giant viruses that approach the lower size limit of bacteria, the general trend shows viruses as much simpler and diminutive particles compared to typical prokaryotes.

Host Range

Viruses have the unique ability to infect a wide variety of hosts, including organisms from all three domains of life: bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. This broad host range illustrates their adaptability and evolutionary success in diverse biological environments.

Viral Structure

Viruses are composed of genetic material, either DNA or RNA, surrounded by a protective protein coat called a capsid. Some viruses also possess a lipid envelope, which is derived from the host cell's membrane, making their structure fundamental for protection and infectivity.

Viral Replication

Unlike living cells, viruses do not possess the necessary cellular machinery to replicate on their own and must infect a host cell to propagate. They hijack the host’s metabolic machinery to synthesize and assemble new viral particles, making them obligate intracellular parasites.

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