EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -When it comes into contact with a host cell, a virus can insert its genetic material into its host, literally taking over the host’s functions. An infected cell produces more viral protein and genetic material instead of its usual products.

Detailed explanation-2: -When a virus infects a host cell, it injects its DNA or RNA into the host and takes control. If the host cell makes many copies of the virus (replicates viral DNA), the new viruses explode from the cell and kill the host. The lytic cycle is characterized by viral infection, replication and cell destruction.

Detailed explanation-3: -Bacterial viruses (bacteriophages or phages) have DNA or RNA as genetic material. The two essential functions of genetic material are replication and expression. Genetic material must replicate accurately so that progeny inherit all of the specific genetic determinants (the genotype) of the parental organism.

Detailed explanation-4: -This process of host cell takeover is known as “molecular hijacking.” When a virus replicates it has to build entire viral particles and it has to not only make the proteins that comprise the viral capsid (and enclose it with an envelope), but it must also replicate its genetic material.

Detailed explanation-5: -Entry. Virus enters cell by endocytosis. In the cytoplasm, the capsid comes apart, releasing the RNA genome.