Which of the following is not a cytopathic effect?

• A. Cell lysis
• B. Syncytium formation
• C. Inclusion body formation
• D. Increased cell proliferation

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'cytopathic effect': Cytopathic effects are observable changes in host cells due to viral infection. These changes can include cell lysis, syncytium formation, and inclusion body formation.
2. Define 'cell lysis': This is the breaking down or destruction of a cell, often caused by viral infection, leading to the release of its contents.
3. Define 'syncytium formation': This occurs when infected cells fuse together to form a large multinucleated cell, a common cytopathic effect of certain viral infections.
4. Define 'inclusion body formation': These are abnormal structures formed within the cell, often visible under a microscope, indicating viral infection.
5. Recognize that 'increased cell proliferation' is not a cytopathic effect: Increased cell proliferation refers to the rapid multiplication of cells, which is not typically caused by viral infection and does not fit the definition of a cytopathic effect.