I need help
A virus kills its host cell at the end of
a. Conjugation
b. The formation of a prophage
c. Assembly of the capsid
d. A lytic cycle
I think its d but I am not sure
To determine which option is correct, let's break down the given options and understand the process of a virus infecting a host cell.
a. Conjugation: Conjugation is a mechanism of genetic transfer usually observed in bacteria. It involves the transfer of genetic material from one bacterium to another through direct physical contact. Unlike viruses, bacteria engage in conjugation, so it is not the correct answer.
b. The formation of a prophage: A prophage is a viral genome that is integrated into the DNA of a host bacterium. During this process, the viral DNA becomes a part of the host's genome and remains latent, not actively reproducing or killing the host cell. Therefore, the formation of a prophage does not result in the death of the host cell.
c. Assembly of the capsid: The capsid is the protein shell that encloses the viral genetic material. The assembly of the capsid is a crucial step in the reproduction of a virus, but it does not necessarily lead to the death of the host cell.
d. A lytic cycle: The lytic cycle is a viral replication cycle in which the virus takes over the host cell, replicates its genetic material, assembles new virus particles (capsids), and then lyses (bursts) the host cell to release the newly formed viruses. In this cycle, the host cell is ultimately killed as a result of being burst open. Therefore, the correct answer is option d. A lytic cycle.
In summary, the correct answer is d. A lytic cycle, as this is the stage of viral replication where the host cell is killed.