Question

How does the genome structure of Varicella-zoster virus provide an evolutionary advantage over a single-stranded DNA virus?

a) It enhances the ability to integrate into the host genome.
b) It allows for rapid replication during host infection.
c) It increases resistance to antiviral drugs.
d) It minimizes the chances of mutational errors during replication.

Answer 1

The double-stranded DNA genome of Varicella-zoster virus minimizes errors during replication and can integrate into the host's DNA, remaining latent for potential reactivation, providing an evolutionary advantage over single-stranded DNA viruses.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is a double-stranded DNA virus that causes chickenpox and has an evolutionary advantage over single-stranded DNA viruses because it minimizes mutational errors during replication. Double-stranded DNA provides a complementary strand that acts as a template for correcting errors, which contributes to the stability of the viral genome. Additionally, the double-stranded DNA of VZV can integrate into the host's genome, remaining latent and allowing for possible reactivation as shingles. This capability for dormancy and reactivation contributes to the virus's persistence and evolutionary success.