Stages of the Lytic Cycle:
1. Attachment: The virus attaches to the host cell.
2. Entry: The virus enters the host cell, injecting its genetic material (DNA or RNA).
3. Replication: The viral genome takes control of the host cell's machinery to produce new viral components (proteins and nucleic acids).
4. Assembly: New viral particles are assembled from these components.
5. Release: The host cell lyses (bursts open), releasing the new viruses to infect more cells.
What happens to the host cell?
* Loss of function: As the virus takes over the host cell's machinery, it shuts down normal cellular processes, preventing the cell from carrying out its normal functions.
* Destruction: The host cell is eventually destroyed when it lyses, releasing the new viruses.
* Spread of infection: The released viruses can then infect other cells, continuing the cycle.
Consequences of the Lytic Cycle:
* Disease symptoms: Cell lysis and disruption of normal cellular functions contribute to the symptoms of viral infections.
* Tissue damage: The widespread destruction of host cells can lead to tissue damage and organ failure.
Example: The common cold virus (rhinovirus) replicates using the lytic cycle, leading to the symptoms of a cold like runny nose, sore throat, and cough.
It's important to note that not all viruses use the lytic cycle. Some viruses can also replicate using a lysogenic cycle, which involves integrating their genetic material into the host cell's genome without immediately destroying the cell.
