Describe the Steps of The Virus Replication/Life Cycle
Viruses can ONLY replicate in living cells.
The basic enveloped virus consists of a Lipid Envelope, A Protein capsid, and DNA or RNA.
On the lipid envelop there are glycoproteins that act as receptors to bind to and enter the cell.
Inside the virus is the capsid, protecting the viral genome.
Step 1: Attachment
The virus binds to the protein on the cell membrane.
Step 2: Entry
With enveloped viruses, the envelope then fuses with the cell membrane AND the capsid enters the cytoplasm.
Step 3: Uncoating
The Capsid disintegrates and the viral genome is released into the cytoplasm.
Step 4: DNA/RNA Transcription
In most DNA viruses, the genome enter the cell nucleus
Step 5: Translation of proteins
The genome is then used to synthesize enzymes and the structural proteins.
Step 6: Assembly
Structural Glycoproteins join with the cell membrane and capsid proteins from new viral capsid into which new viral genomes are incorporated.
Step 7: Release
When the virus buds out of the cell, it takes some of the cell membrane with it, along with its glycoprotein.
