Understanding Viruses: Structure and Life Cycle

In this episode, we cover the topic of viruses. We explore a comprehensive range of subtopics including the definition and structure of viruses, their life cycles, and the differences between transduction and transfection. We also discuss virus classification, viral mutations, and subviral particles. This material will primarily appear in the Bio/Biochem section of the MCAT. 

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Jump into the conversation:

[00:00] Introduction

[01:57] Definition of a virus

[02:55] Virus structure

[10:41] The viral life cycle

[17:34] The bacteriophage life cycle

[21:40] The retrovirus life cycle

[21:40] The retrovirus life cycle

[27:11] Virus classification

[32:09] Viral mutation 

[40:31] Subviral particles