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MIC 121 GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS AND STRUCTURE OF VIRUSES Objective Question
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Question

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes prions from viruses and viroids?
Options
A Prions contain a circular double-stranded DNA genome.
B Prions are infectious proteins whose extracellular forms contain no nucleic acid and no envelope.
Correct Answer
C Prions are artificially engineered viral particles used for research.
D Prions are defective viruses that require a helper virus for replication.
Correct Answer

Option B is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

The document states, 'Prions are infectious proteins whose extracellular forms contain no nucleic acid and no envelope.' This makes them distinct from viruses (which have nucleic acid and often a protein coat) and viroids (which have RNA but no protein coat).

Hint

Think about the fundamental building blocks of prions compared to other infectious agents.

Question Info

Course: MIC 121
Topic: GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS AND STRUCTURE OF VIRUSES
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 136 of 984
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