Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the viral capsid?

Accepted Answer

It protects the viral nucleic acid genome from nucleases.

Question 2

A virus that lacks an envelope is called a(n):

Accepted Answer

Naked virus

Question 3

Which of the following is a key reason why RNA viruses mutate more rapidly than DNA viruses?

Accepted Answer

RNA-dependent RNA polymerases lack proofreading ability.

Question 4

During which stage of the viral life cycle does the virus shed its protein coat to release its genetic material into the host cell?

Accepted Answer

Uncoating

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why viruses are dependent on host cells for replication?

Accepted Answer

Viruses do not possess the necessary cellular machinery for independent replication.

Question 6

A virus infects a host cell by binding to a specific receptor. Which of the following best describes the consequence of this specificity?

Accepted Answer

The virus can only infect cells that express the corresponding receptor.

Question 7

Which of the following is a major hurdle for viral infection in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

The restriction of host translational machinery to monocistronic RNAs

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the process of viral budding?

Accepted Answer

The virus acquires its envelope by pushing out from the host cell's plasma membrane.

Question 9

A patient is diagnosed with a viral infection acquired through the faecal-oral route. Which of the following characteristics is most likely true of the virus?

Accepted Answer

It is resistant to digestive enzymes and low pH.

Question 10

Which of the following is a correct comparison between DNA and RNA virus replication?

Accepted Answer

DNA viruses replicate in the nucleus, while most RNA viruses replicate in the cytoplasm.

Question 11

A virus is found to spread from the initial site of infection to the central nervous system by traveling along nerves. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Neurotropic spread

Question 12

Which of the following is a plausible target for antiviral drug development?

Accepted Answer

A process essential for viral replication that is not toxic to the host

Question 13

A virus is shed from the same route as its entry. Which of the following is most likely true?

Accepted Answer

The virus infects the gastrointestinal tract and is shed in feces.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why segmented viral genomes are a concern for emerging zoonotic diseases?

Accepted Answer

Segmented genomes facilitate genetic reassortment, increasing diversity.

Question 15

A pregnant woman is infected with a virus that crosses the placenta. Which of the following outcomes is LEAST likely?

Accepted Answer

Increased resistance to infection in the fetus

Question 16

Which of the following equations best represents the exponential increase in viral genome copies during replication, assuming each cycle doubles the number of genomes?

Accepted Answer

$N = N_0 	imes 2^n$

Question 17

Which of the following is a real-world example of a virus entering the body through the conjunctiva?

Accepted Answer

Enterovirus type 70 causing conjunctivitis

Question 18

A virus is able to produce abundant amounts of its own protein in a host cell. Which of the following mechanisms is most likely involved?

Accepted Answer

The virus outcompetes host mRNA for ribosomes.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the difference between local and systemic viral spread within a host?

Accepted Answer

Local spread is limited to neighboring cells, while systemic spread involves dissemination via the bloodstream or nerves.

Question 20

Which of the following environmental factors does NOT significantly affect the survival of viruses outside the host?

Accepted Answer

The presence of bacterial spores

Viral Molecular Biology: Structure, Replication, and Pathogenesis

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