LYSOGENIC Meaning and
Definition
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Lysogenic, in biology and virology, refers to a viral life cycle that involves the incorporation of viral DNA into the DNA of the host organism. This process occurs in certain temperate bacteriophages, which are a type of virus that infects bacteria. During lysogenic infection, the viral DNA becomes integrated with the host DNA, forming a composite genome known as a prophage. The prophage is then replicated along with the host DNA during cell division, persisting in the host genome for multiple generations.
Unlike the lytic cycle, where the virus quickly replicates and destroys the host cell, the lysogenic cycle is characterized by the dormant state of the virus within the host genome. The host cell continues to function normally, and both the host and the prophage are capable of continued proliferation. However, certain stimuli, such as stress or environmental factors, can trigger the prophage to exit the lysogenic state and enter the lytic cycle, leading to the production of new viral particles and ultimately the death of the host cell.
The lysogenic cycle allows the virus to establish a long-term relationship with the host, providing advantages such as genome stability and increased chances of transmission to new hosts. Notably, this cycle is particularly significant in the context of bacterial viruses and is of great interest in understanding the dynamics of viral infections and their impact on both bacteria and higher organisms.
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Relating to the formation of lysins.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LYSOGENIC
Etymology of LYSOGENIC
The word "lysogenic" originates from the combination of two terms: "lyso" and "genic".
The prefix "lyso" is derived from the Greek word "lysis", meaning "to loosen" or "dissolve". It is commonly used in biological terms to refer to the process of breaking down or destroying cells or other biological substances.
The suffix "genic" is derived from the Greek word "genos", meaning "birth", "race", or "origin". This part of the word is commonly used in biological terms to indicate something related to the production, formation, or creation of a particular element or substance.
When these two parts are combined, "lyso" and "genic", the word "lysogenic" is formed.
Similar spelling words for LYSOGENIC
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