Which stage of an animal virus life cycle involves integration of the viral genome into the host cell's genome?

• A. Attachment stage
• B. Uncoating stage
• C. Release stage
• D. Provirus stage

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the stages of the animal virus life cycle: Attachment, Uncoating, Integration (Provirus stage), Replication, Assembly, and Release.
2. Recognize that the Attachment stage involves the virus binding to the host cell surface receptors, but no genetic material enters the host genome at this point.
3. Know that the Uncoating stage is when the viral capsid is removed, releasing the viral genome into the host cell, but integration has not yet occurred.
4. Identify that the Provirus stage specifically refers to the integration of the viral genome into the host cell's genome, which is a key step for certain viruses like retroviruses.
5. Understand that the Release stage involves new viral particles exiting the host cell, which happens after integration and replication.