Permissive

Definition

A permissive host cell is one that allows a virus to enter, replicate, and ultimately cause an infection. Such cells provide the necessary conditions for the virus to complete its life cycle.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The permissiveness of a host cell is critical for viral replication and infection.
2. Not all cells in an organism are permissive to the same virus; specificity exists based on receptor presence and cellular environment.
3. Permissive cells can exhibit cytopathic effects as a result of viral replication.
4. In some instances, genetic mutations in host cells can alter their permissiveness to certain viruses.
5. The study of permissive cells aids in understanding viral pathogenesis and developing antiviral therapies.

Review Questions

• What defines a cell as being permissive for a particular virus?
• How does cell specificity impact the permissiveness of different tissues within an organism?
• What role do cytopathic effects play in identifying permissive cells?

Related terms

Cytopathic Effect: Observable damage to host cells caused by viral invasion and replication.

Viral Tropism: The specificity of a virus for a particular host tissue or cell type.

Host Range: The variety of hosts that a virus can infect.