1. Attachment: The phage (virus) binds to specific receptor sites on the surface of the bacterial cell. This is a highly specific interaction, and the phage can only attach to certain types of bacteria.
2. Entry: The phage injects its genetic material (DNA or RNA) into the bacterial cell. The phage's protein coat remains outside the bacterium.
3. Integration: Here's where the lysogenic cycle diverges from the lytic cycle. Instead of immediately taking over the host's machinery to replicate, the phage DNA integrates into the bacterial chromosome. This integrated phage DNA is now called a prophage.
4. Replication with the host: The prophage replicates along with the bacterial chromosome, becoming a permanent part of the host's genome. This means that the phage DNA is passed on to every daughter cell during bacterial cell division.
Key Points about the Lysogenic Cycle:
* Dormant phage: The prophage exists in a dormant state, not actively producing new phage particles.
* Environmental triggers: The lysogenic cycle can persist for generations, until triggered by environmental factors (like stress, radiation, or certain chemicals) to switch to the lytic cycle.
* Lytic cycle: In the lytic cycle, the prophage excises itself from the bacterial chromosome, replicates itself, and ultimately destroys the host cell, releasing new phages.
Let me know if you would like a more detailed explanation of any of these steps!
