Plaques

Definition

Plaques are clear zones formed in a cell culture by the lysis of cells due to viral infection. They are used as an indicator of viral presence and activity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plaques result from the destruction of host cells by viruses, leading to visible clearings on a culture plate.
2. The number of plaques can be used to quantify the amount of virus present in a sample.
3. Plaque assays are commonly employed in virology to measure virus concentration and determine viral titers.
4. Each plaque originates from a single infectious viral particle, making them useful for isolating pure virus strains.
5. Plaque formation can be influenced by factors such as cell type, viral strain, and incubation conditions.

Review Questions

• What causes the formation of plaques in a cell culture?
• How can plaques be used to quantify viral presence?
• Why is each plaque considered to originate from a single infectious particle?

Related terms

Antigen-Antibody Complex: A molecular complex formed when an antibody binds to its specific antigen.

Viral Titer: The concentration of virus particles in a sample, often determined using plaque assays.

Cell Culture: A laboratory process where cells are grown under controlled conditions, often used for virus propagation.