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Which statement is true of viral replication?

a) It only occurs in eukaryotic cells.
b) Reverse transcriptase is involved in RNA viruses.
c) Viruses replicate through binary fission.
d) Viral replication is independent of host cells.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Viral replication is the process by which viruses reproduce and make new copies of themselves using a host cell's machinery. The specific method of replication depends on the type of virus and its genetic material.

Correct option is b) Reverse transcriptase is involved in RNA viruses.

Step-by-step explanation:

Viral replication is the process by which viruses reproduce and make new copies of themselves. It is important to note that viruses cannot replicate on their own and require a host cell to do so. Once inside a host cell, viruses use the cell's machinery and resources to replicate. The specific method of viral replication depends on the type of virus and its genetic material.

For DNA viruses, most replicate inside the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. They use host cell proteins and enzymes to make additional DNA copies, which are then transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) and used to direct protein synthesis. RNA viruses, on the other hand, usually replicate in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. The viral RNA serves as a template for the synthesis of viral genomic RNA and mRNA. The viral mRNA then directs the host cell to produce viral enzymes and capsid proteins, leading to the assembly of new virions. However, there are exceptions to these general patterns, such as the large DNA poxviruses that can replicate in the cytoplasm.

In summary, viral replication requires a host cell and the specific method of replication depends on the type of virus and its genetic material.

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