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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic of the lytic cycle in viruses?
A
The host cell undergoes mitosis with the viral DNA
B
The virus remains dormant within the host cell
C
The viral DNA integrates into the host genome
D
The host cell is lysed and destroyed
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the lytic cycle: The lytic cycle is one of the two main cycles of viral reproduction, the other being the lysogenic cycle. In the lytic cycle, the virus takes over the host cell's machinery to replicate its own genetic material and produce new virus particles.
Identify the key characteristic of the lytic cycle: A defining feature of the lytic cycle is that it results in the destruction of the host cell. This occurs when the newly formed virus particles cause the host cell to burst, or lyse, releasing the new viruses to infect other cells.
Differentiate from the lysogenic cycle: In contrast to the lytic cycle, the lysogenic cycle involves the integration of viral DNA into the host cell's genome, where it can remain dormant for a period of time. This is not a characteristic of the lytic cycle.
Evaluate the given options: The options provided include characteristics of both the lytic and lysogenic cycles. The correct characteristic of the lytic cycle is that the host cell is lysed and destroyed.
Conclude with the correct answer: Based on the understanding of the lytic cycle, the correct answer is that the host cell is lysed and destroyed, which aligns with the nature of the lytic cycle in viral reproduction.