Which part of a virus enters into its host :-a)envelopeb)Capsidc)Nucleic acidd)All togetherCorrect answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

When it comes into contact with a host cell, a virus can insert its genetic material into its host, literally taking over the host's functions. An infected cell produces more viral protein and genetic material instead of its usual products.

Answer

Nucleic acid is the infectious part of the virus .only infectious part enters into  host .

Answer

The correct answer is option 'C': Nucleic acid.

A virus is a microscopic infectious agent that replicates inside the living cells of an organism. It consists of genetic material (nucleic acid) surrounded by a protein coat called the capsid. Some viruses also have an additional layer called the envelope.

Here is a detailed explanation of why the nucleic acid of a virus enters its host:

1. Introduction to viruses:
- Viruses are non-living particles that require a host cell to reproduce and cause infections.
- They can infect various organisms, including animals, plants, and even bacteria.
- Viruses come in different shapes and sizes, but all have a core genetic material and a protective protein coat.

2. Structure of a virus:
- The capsid is the protein coat that surrounds the nucleic acid of a virus.
- It provides protection to the genetic material and helps in the attachment of the virus to the host cell.
- Some viruses, such as the influenza virus, also have an additional lipid envelope derived from the host cell membrane.

3. Role of the capsid:
- The capsid contains the nucleic acid of the virus, which is either DNA or RNA.
- The nucleic acid carries the genetic instructions that allow the virus to replicate and produce more viral particles.
- The capsid acts as a protective shell, shielding the nucleic acid from the external environment, including host immune defenses.

4. Entry into the host cell:
- When a virus encounters a suitable host cell, it attaches to specific receptor molecules on the surface of the cell.
- This attachment is mediated by proteins on the surface of the virus, which bind to complementary receptors on the host cell.
- Once attached, the virus injects its nucleic acid into the host cell, while the capsid remains outside.
- The nucleic acid then takes over the cellular machinery of the host cell to produce viral proteins and replicate the viral genome.

In conclusion, while the capsid of a virus plays a crucial role in protecting the nucleic acid and facilitating attachment to the host cell, it is the nucleic acid itself (DNA or RNA) that enters into the host cell. The nucleic acid contains the genetic information necessary for the virus to hijack the host cell's machinery and replicate itself, leading to the production of more viral particles and the spread of infection.

Answer

Only nucleic acid enters into its host

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