Virology
Virology Introduction Virus : Definition : A Virus is an infectious agent that is minimally constructed of two components: 1) A genome consisting of either ribonucleic acid (RNA) or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), but not both, and 2) A protein-containing structure (capsid) designed to protect the genome The other infectious agents like bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and worms, are either single cells or composed of many cells. Cells are capable of independent replication, can synthesize their own energy and proteins, and can be seen in the light microscope. In contrast, viruses are not cells; they are not capable of independent replication, can synthesize neither their own energy nor their own proteins, and are too small to be seen in the light microscope. Terms & Definitions in Virology : Capsid : The protein shell, or coat, that encloses the nucleic acid genome. Capsomeres : Morphologic units seen in the electron microscope on the surface of icosahedral v...