Host specificity of a virus is due to
A) the presence of an envelope.
B) particular genes that it shares with the infected cell.
C) differences in size between the virus and the host cell.
D) interactions between viral and cellular surface molecules.
E) the presence or absence of a cell wall on the host cell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Host specificity of a virus is primarily determined by the interactions between viral surface proteins and specific receptors on the surface of the host cell. These interactions allow the virus to attach and enter the host cell, initiating infection.

Host Specificity of a Virus Is Due to