Which of the following does NOT represent an event in bacteriophage multiplication?

• A. Uncoating of the viral genome
• B. Attachment to the host cell
• C. Assembly of new virions
• D. Release of progeny phages

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the bacteriophage multiplication cycle, which typically includes the following key events: attachment to the host cell, penetration of the viral genome into the host, replication of viral components, assembly of new virions, and release of progeny phages.
2. Step 2: Define 'attachment' as the initial step where the bacteriophage binds specifically to receptors on the bacterial cell surface, which is essential for infection to begin.
3. Step 3: Recognize 'assembly' as the stage where newly synthesized viral components (such as capsid proteins and viral DNA) are put together to form complete virions inside the host cell.
4. Step 4: Identify 'release' as the final step where mature virions exit the host cell, often by lysing the bacterial cell to spread and infect new cells.
5. Step 5: Clarify that 'uncoating' refers to the removal of the viral capsid to release the viral genome inside the host cell, a process common in animal viruses but not in bacteriophages, since bacteriophages inject their genome directly without uncoating.