SECTION 6-1: VIRUSES + IMMUNITY

Virus

An infectious particle that is not truly alive and does not reproduce on its own.

Lytic Cycle

A method of virus replication where the virus immediately forces the host cell to make more viruses.

Lysogenic Cycle

A method of virus replication where the virus merges its DNA with the host cell's DNA, allowing the host to divide multiple times before the lytic cycle takes over.

Antigen

Something that triggers the immune system, such as microorganisms, splinters, or pollen.

Pathogen

A disease-causing agent.

Immunity

The body's ability to remember antigens/pathogens and know how to fight them.

Vaccination

Injecting a weak virus into an organism to build immunity.

Non-Specific Immunity

Constant defenses against any antigens, including barriers like skin, mucous, and natural killer cells.

Specific Immunity

Cell defenses that target specific antigens, involving antibodies that neutralize pathogens.

Phagocytes

White blood cells that consume antigens through phagocytosis.

B Cells

Type of white blood cell that releases antibodies.

T Cells

Type of white blood cell that attracts more phagocytes, attacks antigens, or produces more T cells.

HIV

A virus that attacks and controls T cells, leading to AIDS and susceptibility to other diseases.

Influenza

A viral disease also known as the flu.

Ebola

A viral disease that causes severe hemorrhagic fever.

Herpes

A viral disease that causes sores and is often lifelong.

HPV

Human papillomavirus, a viral infection that can lead to certain cancers.

Zika

A viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can cause birth defects.

Covid-19

A viral disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.