Induction

Definition

Induction is the process by which a dormant virus in a lysogenic cycle becomes active and enters the lytic cycle. This shift leads to the production of new viral particles and often results in the destruction of the host cell.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Induction can be triggered by environmental factors such as UV light or chemical agents.
2. During induction, prophage DNA is excised from the bacterial chromosome.
3. The lytic cycle initiated by induction results in cell lysis and release of new virions.
4. Induction is a critical step for viruses to propagate after being dormant in a host.
5. Repressor proteins that maintain lysogeny are degraded during induction, allowing viral genes to be expressed.

Review Questions

• What triggers the induction of a dormant virus?
• What happens to prophage DNA during induction?
• Why is induction important for viral propagation?

Related terms

Lysogenic Cycle:

A viral replication cycle where the virus integrates into the host genome and remains dormant.

Lytic Cycle:

A viral replication cycle that results in destruction of the host cell and release of new virions.

Prophage:

Viral DNA that is integrated into the host's genome during lysogeny.