What happens to the host bacterium's DNA after a bacteriophage injects its DNA/RNA into the cell?

• A. The host DNA is immediately degraded by viral enzymes.
• B. The host DNA is replicated along with the viral DNA.
• C. The host DNA is incorporated into the viral genome.
• D. The host DNA remains unchanged and continues normal function.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the life cycle of a bacteriophage: Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria. They have a specific life cycle that involves injecting their genetic material into the host bacterium.
2. Identify the lytic and lysogenic cycles: In the lytic cycle, the bacteriophage's DNA takes over the host's cellular machinery to produce new viral particles, often leading to the degradation of the host's DNA. In the lysogenic cycle, the viral DNA integrates into the host's genome and replicates along with it.
3. Consider the role of viral enzymes: During the lytic cycle, viral enzymes can degrade the host bacterium's DNA to prevent it from interfering with the production of new viruses.
4. Evaluate the options: The correct answer involves understanding that in the lytic cycle, the host DNA is often degraded by viral enzymes to facilitate the replication of viral DNA.
5. Conclude with the correct understanding: The host bacterium's DNA is typically degraded by viral enzymes during the lytic cycle, allowing the bacteriophage to hijack the host's cellular machinery for its own replication.