Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology - Week 7, Part 2

These flashcards cover key concepts related to molecular and cellular biology, specifically focusing on cell types, viruses, and their interactions with host cells.

Eukaryotic Cell

A type of cell that contains a nucleus and other organelles enclosed within membranes.

Prokaryotic Cell

A simple cell without a nucleus; bacteria are a common example.

Viruses

Tiny infectious agents that can only replicate inside living cells and are composed of genetic material (DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protein coat.

Capsid

The protein shell of a virus that encases its genetic material.

Retrovirus

A type of virus that contains RNA as its genetic material and can convert RNA into DNA within a host cell.

Bacteriophage

A virus that specifically infects bacteria.

Lytic Cycle

A viral reproduction cycle resulting in the destruction of the host cell and the release of new virions.

Lysogenic Cycle

A viral reproduction cycle in which the viral DNA integrates into the host's DNA and remains dormant until triggered to replicate.

CRISPR-Cas9

A gene editing technology derived from a bacterial immune response that allows for precision modifications of DNA.

Antigen

A substance that induces an immune response, often used in vaccines.

RNA Vaccine

A vaccine that contains messenger RNA (mRNA) to instruct cells to produce a protein that triggers an immune response.