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Multiple Choice
Viruses typically attach to what type of host membrane receptors?
A
Nucleic acids
B
Carbohydrate chains
C
Specific protein receptors
D
Lipid molecules
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that viruses need to attach to host cells to initiate infection. This attachment is typically mediated by interactions between viral proteins and host cell membrane receptors.
Recognize that host cell membrane receptors are proteins that can specifically bind to certain molecules, including viral proteins. These receptors are crucial for the virus to gain entry into the cell.
Learn that viruses have evolved to recognize and bind to specific protein receptors on the host cell membrane. This specificity is due to the complementary shapes and chemical properties of the viral proteins and the host receptors.
Consider the role of protein receptors in cellular communication and signaling. These receptors are often involved in normal cellular processes, but viruses exploit them to facilitate entry into the host cell.
Reflect on the importance of understanding virus-host interactions for developing antiviral strategies. By targeting these specific protein receptors, scientists can design drugs or vaccines to prevent viral attachment and subsequent infection.