Two methods of reproduction are common for bacteriophages. Which statement best describes the relationship between the two methods?
A)Viral DNA reproduced via the lysogenic pathway eventually enters the lytic pathway.
B)Viral DNA reproduced via the lytic pathway eventually enters the lysogenic pathway.
C)Viral DNA in the lysogenic pathway immediately directs the host to reproduce the new viral particles.
D)The lytic and lysogenic pathways cannot interact in bacteriophage reproduction.
E)The lytic pathway is dependent upon the lysogenic pathway for infection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bacteriophages can reproduce via the lytic or lysogenic pathways. In the lysogenic pathway, viral DNA is integrated into the host genome and is replicated along with the host DNA during cell division. However, eventually, environmental factors can cause the integrated viral DNA to switch to the lytic pathway, where it directs the production and release of new viral particles, leading to host cell lysis. Therefore, viral DNA reproduced via the lysogenic pathway can eventually enter the lytic pathway.

Two Methods of Reproduction Are Common for Bacteriophages