Here's a breakdown:
1. Infection: A bacteriophage (a virus that infects bacteria) attaches to a bacterial cell and injects its DNA.
2. Integration: The phage DNA, instead of immediately taking over the bacterial cell and replicating, integrates itself into the bacterial chromosome at a specific site. This integrated phage DNA is now called a prophage.
3. Lysogenic Cycle: The bacterium continues to live and reproduce normally, carrying the prophage. The prophage's genes are usually silent, but they can be activated under certain conditions.
4. Induction: Stressful conditions, like UV radiation or certain chemicals, can trigger the prophage to enter the lytic cycle.
5. Lytic Cycle: The phage DNA excises itself from the bacterial chromosome and starts replicating, producing new phage particles. These particles then lyse (break open) the bacterial cell, releasing new phages to infect other bacteria.
In summary:
* Lysogeny: The bacteriophage DNA becomes part of the bacterial chromosome.
* Lytic Cycle: The phage DNA replicates and destroys the host cell.
Important Note: Not all bacteriophages undergo lysogeny. Some follow only the lytic cycle, immediately replicating and destroying the host cell.
