Which of the following components is not associated with the virulence of viruses?

• A. Capsid proteins
• B. Envelope glycoproteins
• C. Viral enzymes
• D. Cell wall peptidoglycan

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of virulence in viruses: Virulence refers to the degree of pathogenicity or the ability of a virus to cause disease in a host. It is influenced by various factors including the virus's ability to invade host cells, evade the immune system, and replicate efficiently.
2. Identify the components typically associated with viral virulence: Viruses often have specific structures and proteins that contribute to their virulence. These include capsid proteins, which protect the viral genetic material; envelope glycoproteins, which help the virus attach and enter host cells; and viral enzymes, which assist in replication and other processes.
3. Examine the role of capsid proteins: Capsid proteins form the protective shell around the viral genome. They are crucial for the stability and infectivity of the virus, playing a role in its ability to survive outside a host and initiate infection.
4. Consider the function of envelope glycoproteins: These proteins are embedded in the viral envelope and are essential for the virus's ability to bind to host cell receptors, facilitating entry into the host cell. They are often key targets for the immune system.
5. Evaluate the presence of cell wall peptidoglycan: Peptidoglycan is a component of bacterial cell walls, not viruses. Viruses do not have cell walls; instead, they have a protein coat (capsid) and sometimes a lipid envelope. Therefore, peptidoglycan is not associated with viral virulence.