Question Detail

MIC 121 GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS AND STRUCTURE OF VIRUSES Objective Question
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Question

What is the primary determinant of host specificity for viruses?
Options
A The size of the viral genome.
B The type of nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) the virus contains.
C The interaction between viral surface molecules and host cell receptors.
Correct Answer
D The ability of the virus to crystallize outside a host.
Correct Answer

Option C is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

Under 'Host Specificity', the text notes, 'The interaction between viral surface molecules and host cell receptors determines this specificity.' This is also reiterated in the 'Attachment (Adsorption)' section for bacteriophages.

Hint

Think about how a virus 'recognizes' and binds to a specific target cell.

Question Info

Course: MIC 121
Topic: GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS AND STRUCTURE OF VIRUSES
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 148 of 984
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