/*! This file is auto-generated */ .wp-block-button__link{color:#fff;background-color:#32373c;border-radius:9999px;box-shadow:none;text-decoration:none;padding:calc(.667em + 2px) calc(1.333em + 2px);font-size:1.125em}.wp-block-file__button{background:#32373c;color:#fff;text-decoration:none} Problem 8 In some viruses, the capsomeres ... [FREE SOLUTION] | 91影视

91影视

Log out

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 13: Problem 8

In some viruses, the capsomeres act enzymatically as well as structurally. What advantage might this provide the virus?

Short Answer

Expert verified
A virus with capsomeres that act both structurally and enzymatically could have an advantage in terms of efficiency and ability to evade host defenses. The dual-functioning capsomeres may facilitate faster or more efficient viral replication, and they might also help the virus evade detection by the host's immune system by disguising the enzymatic activities.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Role of Capsomeres

Capsomeres are protein subunits that make up the capsid or outer covering of a virus. This is a structural role, providing protection to the genetic material contained within the virus.
02

Identify the Enzymatic Role

Some capsomeres can also function enzymatically. This means these capsomeres can facilitate biochemical reactions, either helping the virus attach to host cells, or assisting in the replication process of the viral genetic material once inside the host.
03

Determine the Advantage

A virus whose capsomeres can act both structurally and enzymatically might have an advantage in terms of efficiency. The same protein unit serving dual functions can result in quicker or more efficient viral replication, and could also potentially help the virus evade host defenses, because the enzymatic functions are camouflaged by the virus's structural components.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91影视!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Although many +ssRNA viruses use their genome directly as messenger RNA, +ssRNA retroviruses do not. Instead, their \(+\mathrm{RNA}\) is transcribed into DNA by reverse transcriptase. What advantage do retroviruses gain by using reverse transcriptase?

A latent virus that is incorporated into a host cell's chromosome is never induced; that is, it never emerges from the host cell's chromosome to become a free virus. Given that it cannot emerge from the host cell's chromosome, can such a latent virus be considered "safe"? Why or why not?

What are the advantages of using fertilized chicken eggs to culture viruses?

In some viruses, the capsomeres act enzymatically as well as structurally. What advantage might this provide the virus?

Compare and contrast lysogeny by a prophage and latency by a provirus.
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

Astrobiological Science

Read Explanation

Cellular Energetics

Read Explanation

Ecosystems

Read Explanation

Substance Exchange

Read Explanation

Heredity

Read Explanation

Biology Experiments

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.