Which of the following characteristics determine a virus's host range?

• A. The size of the viral genome
• B. The ability of the virus to undergo binary fission
• C. The number of capsid proteins in the virus
• D. The presence of specific receptors on the host cell surface

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a virus's host range refers to the spectrum of host cells it can infect.
2. Recognize that the host range is primarily determined by the interaction between viral surface proteins and specific receptors on the host cell surface.
3. Note that the size of the viral genome does not directly influence which hosts the virus can infect; it relates more to the virus's genetic information and complexity.
4. Understand that viruses do not undergo binary fission; this is a method of reproduction for bacteria, so it does not affect host range.
5. Realize that the number of capsid proteins affects the virus's structure but does not determine which host cells it can infect; the key factor is the presence of compatible receptors on the host cell surface.