Virus Structures and Life Cycles

Flashcards based on the structures of viruses and their life cycles, as discussed in the lecture notes.

Virus

A nonliving particle that depends on a host to reproduce; lacks characteristics of life.

Capsid

The outer protein coat of a virus that encases its genetic material.

Lytic Cycle

A viral replication process where the virus enters a host cell, uses the host's machinery to replicate, and ultimately causes the host cell to burst.

Lysogenic Cycle

A viral replication process where the virus integrates its genetic material into the host's DNA and replicates along with it without immediately destroying the host cell.

Retrovirus

A type of virus that uses reverse transcriptase to convert its RNA into DNA after entering a host cell.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

A retrovirus that targets CD4 T cells, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Antibodies

Proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign invaders, such as viruses.

Surface Antigens

Molecules found on the surface of viruses that are recognized by antibodies.

Prophage

A form of the virus that is integrated into the host's DNA during the lysogenic cycle.

Vaccine

A preparation that introduces an inactive or weaker version of a virus to stimulate an immune response.