Viral Replication and Infection Processes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to viral replication, the mechanisms of viral infection, and the biological processes involved in the life cycle of viruses.

What happens when a virus adheres to the human host cell?

The virus hijacks the cell to produce proteins, genome copies, and other vital viral components.

What are the two ways a virus can exit a host cell?

1. The cell bursts, releasing viruses (lytic cycle). 2. The viruses bud out without killing the cell.

How is the genome of the virus delivered into the host cell's cytoplasm?

The envelope of the virus fuses with the plasma membrane of the host cell.

What is retro-transcription in the context of retroviruses?

The process by which retroviruses transform their RNA genome into double-stranded DNA.

What enzyme is responsible for the retro-transcription process?

Retro transcriptase.

What is the significance of protease in the viral life cycle?

Protease cleaves large viral proteins into individual functional proteins necessary for assembling new viruses.

What is antigenic drift?

The gradual accumulation of mutations in viral antigens, altering their structure and potentially reducing vaccine effectiveness.

What occurs when two different flu viruses infect the same human cell?

They can recombine to create new, unique viruses that can possess characteristics from both original viruses.

Explain the role of integrase in the viral life cycle.

Integrase facilitates the integration of viral DNA into the host cell’s genome.

Why is a combination of antiviral drugs typically used to treat viral infections like HIV?

To target the virus at multiple stages and reduce the chances of the virus developing resistance.