why does a virus need a cell? what is it missing that it uses from the host?
translation machineryenergy sourceenzymesmembranes
A virus is considered an obligate intracellular parasite because it needs a host cell to replicate and survive. Viruses lack the machinery necessary for metabolism, movement, and replication. They do not have their own metabolic pathways, organelles, or ribosomes to produce proteins and generate energy. Therefore, they rely on the host cell’s machinery and resources to replicate and spread.
When a virus infects a host cell, it uses the cell’s machinery to produce viral components such as nucleic acid, proteins, and enzymes. The virus then assembles these components to make new virus particles, which can infect other cells and continue to spread.
In summary, a virus needs a host cell because it lacks the necessary machinery to replicate and spread by itself. It relies on the host cell’s resources to produce and assemble the components needed for viral replication.
More Answers:
Boosting Immunity Against Influenza and SARS-CoV-2: The Role of Epstein-Barr Virus.Exploring the Differences Between DNA and RNA Viruses: Herpes, Measles, Rhinovirus, and Rotavirus
Uncovering the Role of RdRp in RNA Virus Replication and its Significance for Antiviral Drug Development