Distinguish between the lytic and lysogenic cycles of viruses. (1 point)
• The viral genome is only injected into the cell during the lytic cycle.
• The viral genome incorporates into the host genome during the lysogenic cycle.
• The lytic cycle involves the merging together of the viral and host genomes.
• The lysogenic cycle involves newly replicated virus bursting from the cell.
The lysogenic cycle involves the viral genome incorporating into the host genome, while the lytic cycle does not.
In the lytic cycle, the viral genome is injected into the host cell and immediately takes over the cell's machinery to produce new viral components. These components then assemble into new viruses, which ultimately burst out of the host cell, causing its death. This process is characterized by the release of a large number of newly replicated viruses.
On the other hand, in the lysogenic cycle, the viral genome integrates itself into the host genome and becomes a part of it. The integrated viral genome is called a provirus or prophage. During this stage, the virus does not produce new viral particles or cause harm to the host cell. The virus is simply replicated along with the host genome when the cell undergoes replication. The lysogenic cycle can continue for an extended period of time, allowing the virus to persist within the host genome. However, under certain conditions, the provirus can exit the host genome and enter the lytic cycle, leading to the production of new viruses and cell lysis.