Structure of Viruses
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Viruses are infectious agents that inject themselves into a host cell, replicate, and take over those cells functions. They have a very simple structure made up of two basic parts: a protective wall and DNA. The protective wall of a virus is made of protein. This protein makes the wall extremely strong. For this reason, it is hard to get rid of viruses. Their strong protection makes them hard to destroy. Viruses also contain DNA. This DNA is needed in order for them to reproduce. They also need a host cell to reproduce. Once a virus is introduced into the body, it can attach itself to a body cell and inject it with its DNA. The DNA from the viruses takes over the DNA of the body cell. This causes the body cell to now act like the virus. Eventually the infected body cell will burst releasing lots of newly formed viruses that have a goal of infecting more body cells. Viruses vary as far as their effect on the human body. Some of them can cause mild symptoms such as a cough or runny nose. Others are extremely harmful and can even cause death if not treated appropriately. The effects of a virus are dependent upon its DNA. |
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