A protein coat enclosing a viral genome is known as a(n)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A protein coat enclosing a viral genome is called a capsid. The capsid is made up of protein subunits called capsomeres and serves to protect the viral genome and facilitate its entry into host cells.

Option A (capsule) refers to an outer layer of polysaccharides that may surround the cell wall of some bacteria.

Option B (envelope) is a membranous outer layer that some viruses acquire from their host cells as they exit, but not all viruses have an envelope.

Option D (prophage) is a viral genome that is integrated into the host cell's chromosome and can remain dormant until it is activated to produce new viruses.

A Protein Coat Enclosing a Viral Genome Is Known as A(n)