how does the retrovirus obtain its envelope?!?
To understand how a retrovirus obtains its envelope, we need to understand the life cycle of a retrovirus.
1. Attachment: The first step is attachment, where the retrovirus binds to specific receptors on the surface of the host cell.
2. Fusion: Once attached, the retrovirus fuses with the host cell membrane, allowing the viral content to enter the cell.
3. Reverse Transcription: Inside the host cell, the retrovirus converts its RNA genome into DNA using an enzyme called reverse transcriptase.
4. Integration: The viral DNA integrates itself into the host cell's genome, becoming a part of the cell's genetic material.
5. Transcription and Translation: The integrated viral DNA is transcribed into RNA, which is then translated into viral proteins.
6. Assembly: The viral proteins and newly synthesized RNA molecules combine to form new viral particles called virions.
Now, let's discuss how the retrovirus obtains its envelope:
During the assembly stage, the viral proteins are synthesized and transported to the host cell's plasma membrane. The envelope of a retrovirus is derived from the host cell's plasma membrane.
To obtain its envelope, the retrovirus takes advantage of the cell's membrane remodeling machinery. This machinery allows the retroviral proteins to bud from the host cell's membrane, acquiring both the viral proteins and a portion of the cell's membrane as an envelope. The budding process wraps the viral proteins and genetic material in the envelope, forming a complete retroviral particle.
In summary, the retrovirus obtains its envelope by utilizing the host cell's machinery for membrane remodeling during the assembly phase of its life cycle.