0
They allow the virus to circumvent defenses that have been created by hosts to prevent the virus from attaching to and taking over the host cells (a first step in the Lytic Cycle of viral infection and replication). Because the flu viruses can mutate quickly and frequently, many hosts are not able to continue to defend against them with production of new antibodies fast enough to prevent an infection by a mutation of the original infecting virus.
The hosts that the flu viruses have infected create antibodies that disable the virus' ability to attach to and enter their cells by perfectly fitting into and blocking the proteins on the outer surface (capsid) of the virus. The proteins are what allow viruses to attach to and enter a host cell and begin the replication process. Genetic mutations in the virus that vary the shapes of these proteins on the capsid of the next generation allow the virus to foil the host's ability to perfectly fit and block the attachment to host cells.
See also the related questions below for more information about the Lytic Cycle of viral replication.
What else can I help you with?
What effect can mutations on a virus?
They create genetic variations.
What effects can mutations have on a virus?
They create genetic variations.
What is a mutant virus?
A mutant virus is a virus that has undergone genetic changes, or mutations, in its structure. These mutations can alter the virus's ability to infect cells, replicate, or evade the immune system. Mutant viruses can potentially have different characteristics or behaviors compared to the original, wild-type virus.
Is a virus a good virus or a bad virus or both?
it actually depends on the type of virus in question. There a viruses which are used to correct genetic abnormalities which are infact beneficial and there are others which are harmful to living organisms
When was Mutations of Bacteria from Virus Sensitivity to Virus Resistance created?
Mutations of Bacteria from Virus Sensitivity to Virus Resistance was created in 1943.
What affect can mutations have on a virus?
Mutations in a virus can lead to changes in its behavior, including alterations in transmissibility, virulence, and resistance to treatments or vaccines. Some mutations may enhance the virus's ability to infect hosts or evade the immune system, while others could diminish its infectivity or lead to less severe disease. In some cases, beneficial mutations can drive the emergence of new variants, impacting public health responses and control measures. Overall, the effects of mutations can significantly influence the course of viral outbreaks.
Why is the virus's genetic material important?
The virus's genetic material, which can be either DNA or RNA, is crucial because it contains the instructions for replicating the virus and producing its proteins. This genetic code determines the virus's characteristics, including its ability to infect host cells and evade the immune system. Understanding the genetic material helps scientists develop vaccines and antiviral treatments, as well as track mutations that may affect transmissibility or virulence. Overall, it plays a key role in virology and public health responses.
What is a genotypic drug resistance test?
Genotypic testing can help determine whether specific gene mutations, common in people with HIV, are causing drug resistance and drug failure. The test looks for specific genetic mutations within the virus that.
What is it called when a virus changes?
A single virus remains unchanged over whatever period of time its a virus (which can be many years) but mutations are common during its "reproductive" cycle ... after all, it essentially dissolves in the process, becoming a part of the host cell.
Where is the genetic material of the virus located?
The genetic material of a virus is located inside its capsid.
Where is the genetic materials of a virus located?
The genetic material of a virus is located inside its capsid.
How can mutation be useful?
One use is in virology. A few AIDS medications work by mutating the virus into a strain that is hopefully less virulent. There is also evolution. Mutations in offspring can add beneficial traits or detrimental ones. Beneficial ones get passed down, detrimental ones usually don't
