Multiple Choice
A microbiologist analyzes chemicals obtained from an enveloped RNA virus that infects monkeys. He finds that the viral envelope contains a protein characteristic of monkey cells. Which of the following is the most likely explanation?
17. Viruses
Viruses
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Which of the following can a virus do without a host cell?
A
Synthesize proteins
B
Produce ATP for energy
C
Transcribe DNA
D
Produce nucleotides for use in replication and transcription
E
None of the listed responses is correct.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they require a host cell to perform most biological functions.
Recognize that protein synthesis requires ribosomes, which viruses lack. Therefore, they cannot synthesize proteins without a host cell.
Acknowledge that ATP production is a cellular process involving mitochondria or similar structures, which viruses do not possess. Thus, they cannot produce ATP independently.
Realize that transcription of DNA into RNA requires enzymes like RNA polymerase, which viruses do not have on their own. They rely on the host cell's machinery for transcription.
Note that nucleotide production involves complex metabolic pathways present in living cells, which viruses cannot perform independently. Therefore, they cannot produce nucleotides without a host cell.
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