Progeny virus

Definition

A progeny virus is a new virus particle that has been produced by the replication cycle of an existing virus within a host cell. These particles are capable of infecting new cells and propagating the viral infection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A progeny virus results from the replication process initiated by a parent virus within a host cell.
2. Progeny viruses are released from the host cell through processes such as budding or lysis.
3. The production of progeny viruses can lead to the destruction of the host cell.
4. Viral replication involves stages such as attachment, penetration, uncoating, biosynthesis, assembly, and release.
5. Mutations during replication can result in variations among progeny viruses.

Review Questions

• What is the role of a progeny virus in the viral life cycle?
• How are progeny viruses typically released from a host cell?
• Why might mutations occur during the production of progeny viruses?

Related terms

Lytic Cycle:

A viral replication cycle that results in the destruction of the host cell and release of newly formed viruses.

Budding:

A process by which some viruses exit their host cell by enveloping themselves in a portion of the host's membrane.

Viral Assembly: The stage in viral replication where new viral components are put together to form complete virions.