Studies conducted following an influenza epidemic that affected the inhabitants of several countries determine that the cause is an antigenically novel virus strain carrying the animal-strain hemagglutinin and neuraminidase surface molecules. Further analysis reveals that reassortment of the genetic materials occurred during coinfection with human influenza virus and swine influenza virus, leading to the development of some progeny that contain genetic materials from both viruses. Which of the following viruses can undergo a similar process?

Question

Studies conducted following an influenza epidemic that affected the inhabitants of several countries determine that the cause is an antigenically novel virus strain carrying the animal-strain hemagglutinin and neuraminidase surface molecules.  Further analysis reveals that reassortment of the genetic materials occurred during coinfection with human influenza virus and swine influenza virus, leading to the development of some progeny that contain genetic materials from both viruses.  Which of the following viruses can undergo a similar process?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Viruses with segmented genomes (eg, orthomyxoviruses, rotaviruses) are capable of genetic shifts through reassortment.  Reassortment (genetic shift) involves exchange of entire genomic segments, a far more dramatic process than the point mutations responsible for genetic drift.

Studies Conducted Following an Influenza Epidemic That Affected the Inhabitants