The lytic cycle is a viral replication process wherein a virus infects a host cell, replicates its genetic material, and ultimately causes the cell to burst (lyse), releasing new viral particles. This cycle typically leads to the destruction of the host cell.
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The lytic cycle includes five main stages: attachment, penetration, biosynthesis, maturation, and release.
During the attachment stage, the virus binds to specific receptors on the surface of the host cell.
In the biosynthesis stage, viral genetic material takes over the host's cellular machinery to produce viral components.
New virions are assembled during the maturation stage inside the host cell.
The final release stage involves the lysis of the host cell, releasing new virions to infect other cells.
Review Questions
What are the five main stages of the lytic cycle?
How does a virus attach to a host cell in the lytic cycle?
What happens during the release stage of the lytic cycle?
Related terms
lysogenic_cycle: A viral replication process where viral DNA is integrated into the host genome and can remain dormant for an extended period before entering the lytic cycle.