In the lytic life cycle of phages, __________.

• A. the viral capsid is assembled according to the genetic information of the bacterium
• B. the entire phage is taken into the bacterium
• C. DNA replication is not part of the life cycle
• D. phage DNA is incorporated into the host cell's genome
• E. the cell typically dies, releasing many copies of the virus

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the lytic cycle: The lytic cycle is one of the two cycles of viral reproduction, the other being the lysogenic cycle. In the lytic cycle, the virus infects a host cell, replicates its DNA, and eventually causes the host cell to burst (lyse), releasing new viral particles.
2. Identify the key stages of the lytic cycle: The main stages include attachment, penetration, biosynthesis, maturation, and release. During these stages, the virus attaches to the host cell, injects its genetic material, uses the host's machinery to replicate its components, assembles new virus particles, and finally causes the host cell to burst, releasing the new viruses.
3. Clarify the role of the host cell: In the lytic cycle, the host cell's machinery is hijacked by the viral DNA to produce viral components. This process does not involve the incorporation of viral DNA into the host genome, which is characteristic of the lysogenic cycle.
4. Differentiate between lytic and lysogenic cycles: In the lysogenic cycle, the viral DNA is integrated into the host cell's genome and can remain dormant for a period before entering the lytic cycle. In contrast, the lytic cycle involves immediate replication and destruction of the host cell.
5. Conclude with the outcome of the lytic cycle: The lytic cycle results in the death of the host cell as it bursts open to release new viral particles, which can then infect other cells. This is why the correct answer is that the cell typically dies, releasing many copies of the virus.