BIO: Viruses

Viruses

Exploit life's diversity, infect prokaryotic & eukaryotic organisms. Multiple theories of their origin, can not be traced back to a specific origin. Not a part of the domain of life

Capsid

(protein coat) can be made of multiple proteins, All viruses have one

Bacteriophage

only infects prokaryotic cells, infect health bacteria with viruses genetic material (DNA)

Glycoprotein spikes

Binds to host receptors neutralizes antibodies. Identifies cell types, Can mutate

DNA Viruses

Large genome -> less dependent on host

Slow replication Stable base pair sequences

repair mechanisms -> low mutations Enzymes correct errors during replication

Easier to treat using vaccines

Ex. Small pox, Varicella-zoster virus, Mumps, HPV

RNA Viruses

Small genome -> more dependent on host

Rapid replication Continuously mutating

No RNA repair mechanisms -> high mutations Enzymes do not correct errors during replication

Requires regular vaccination

Ex. Flu viruses, Coronaviruses, RSV, HIV

Erythrocyte

Scientific term for Red blood Cells

Structure

always has nucleic acid, Has either DNA or RNA never both at a time. Always has a capsid Some have envelope (lipid bilayer) and some have spikes

Lytic Cycle

Reproduction method where a virus infects a host cell, forces it to make copies of the virus, then burst open to release new viral particles to repeat the process.

Lysogenic Cycle

Viral Reproduction where a virus integrates its genetic material into a host cells DNA, allowing viral code to copy passively along with host cell divisions WITHOUT destroying the host cell

Lysogenic Latency

Dormant period until virus is triggered (hormones, stress, adrenaline)

Antivirals

Common actions are: Stops virus from entering the cell. Block viral genome copying. Stop protein activation by inhibiting enzymes, prohibit virion from exiting