Table of contents

1. Introduction to Microbiology3h 22m
2. Disproving Spontaneous Generation1h 18m
3. Chemical Principles of Microbiology3h 38m
4. Water1h 28m
5. Molecules of Microbiology2h 23m
6. Cell Membrane & Transport3h 28m
7. Prokaryotic Cell Structures & Functions5h 52m
8. Eukaryotic Cell Structures & Functions2h 18m
9. Microscopes2h 46m
10. Dynamics of Microbial Growth4h 36m
11. Controlling Microbial Growth4h 10m
12. Microbial Metabolism5h 16m
13. Photosynthesis2h 31m
14. DNA Replication2h 25m
15. Central Dogma & Gene Regulation7h 14m
16. Microbial Genetics4h 44m
17. Biotechnology3h 0m
18. Viruses, Viroids, & Prions4h 56m
19. Innate Immunity7h 15m
20. Adaptive Immunity7h 14m
21. Principles of Disease6h 57m

18. Viruses, Viroids, & Prions

Animal Viruses: Antigenic Drift vs. Antigenic Shift

Microbiology

18. Viruses, Viroids, & Prions

Animal Viruses: Antigenic Drift vs. Antigenic Shift

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a major difference between antigenic drift and antigenic shift in viruses?

Antigenic drift results from mutations in the viral genome. Antigenic shift results from combining viral genomes.

Antigenic drift results in the deactivation of the virus while antigenic shift results in the reactivation of the virus.

Antigenic drift results in a new subtype of virus being created while antigenic shift does not.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the definitions: Antigenic drift refers to small, gradual changes in the viral genome due to mutations over time. Antigenic shift, on the other hand, involves a major change in the viral genome, often through the reassortment of genetic material from different viral strains.

Consider the mechanisms: Antigenic drift occurs through point mutations in the genes encoding viral surface proteins, leading to minor changes in the antigens. Antigenic shift typically occurs when two different strains of a virus infect the same cell and exchange genetic material, resulting in a new viral subtype.

Evaluate the outcomes: Antigenic drift can lead to the gradual evolution of the virus, potentially allowing it to evade the host's immune response. Antigenic shift can result in the emergence of a novel virus with significantly different antigens, which may not be recognized by the immune system.

Analyze the impact on viral activity: Antigenic drift does not deactivate the virus; instead, it allows the virus to persist and adapt. Antigenic shift does not inherently reactivate a virus; it creates a new viral subtype that may have different properties.

Identify the correct statement: Based on the definitions and mechanisms, the major difference is that antigenic drift results from mutations in the viral genome, while antigenic shift results from combining viral genomes, leading to the creation of a new viral subtype.