Which of the following viral families is most likely to contain viruses that exist in a latent
state in humans?
a. Herpesviridae
b. Poxviridae
c. Adenoviridae
d. Parvoviridae

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of viral latency: Latency is a state in which a virus remains dormant within a host cell without producing active infection, but can reactivate later.
2. Recall which viral families are known for establishing latency in humans. This typically involves viruses that can integrate into host cells or persist in a non-replicating form.
3. Review the characteristics of each viral family listed: Herpesviridae, Poxviridae, Adenoviridae, and Parvoviridae, focusing on their life cycles and ability to establish latency.
4. Identify that Herpesviridae is well-known for its ability to establish latent infections in human nerve cells, reactivating under certain conditions.
5. Conclude that among the options, the viral family most associated with latency in humans is Herpesviridae.

Key Concepts

Viral Latency

Viral latency is a state in which a virus remains dormant within host cells without producing active infection or symptoms. During latency, the viral genome persists in the host, often integrated into the host DNA or as an episome, and can reactivate later, causing recurrent infections.

Herpesviridae Family Characteristics

The Herpesviridae family includes viruses known for their ability to establish lifelong latent infections in humans. Members like HSV and VZV can remain dormant in nerve cells and reactivate under certain conditions, making latency a hallmark of this viral family.

Comparison of Viral Families and Latency

Not all viral families establish latency; for example, Poxviridae, Adenoviridae, and Parvoviridae typically cause acute infections without a latent phase. Understanding which families can enter latency helps identify viruses that cause recurrent or chronic infections.