Which of the following statements about viruses is false? a....

Which of the following statements about viruses is false?
a. Viruses require a host cell to reproduce.
b. Viruses are sensitive to interferons.
c. Viral infections can generally be controlled with antibiotics.
d. Viruses encode their own genome.

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Key Concepts

Obligate Intracellular Parasitism

Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, which means they require a host cell to replicate. They depend entirely on the cellular machinery of the infected host for the synthesis of new viral components and for the assembly of progeny viruses.

Interferon Sensitivity

Interferons are proteins produced by host cells in response to viral infections. They play a critical role in the innate immune response by inducing antiviral defenses in neighboring cells, thereby limiting viral replication and spread.

Viral Genome

Every virus contains a genome, either DNA or RNA, that encodes the necessary information for producing viral proteins and replicating its genetic material. This genetic material is central to the virus's ability to hijack the host cell's processes and propagate the infection.

Antibiotic Efficacy

Antibiotics are designed to target bacterial processes and structures, such as cell wall synthesis, and are generally ineffective against viruses. Because viruses have different biological mechanisms and do not possess structures targeted by antibiotics, viral infections require alternative treatment strategies such as antiviral medications or supportive care.

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