PROPHAGE Meaning and
Definition
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A prophage refers to a genetic element that exists in a dormant state within the DNA of a bacterial cell. It is a bacteriophage (a type of virus that infects bacteria) that has integrated itself into the host organism's genome. The process of integration is known as lysogeny, whereby the viral DNA becomes a permanent part of the bacterial DNA. The integrated prophage is passively replicated along with the host cell's DNA during cell division, making it an inheritable trait.
Prophages remain in a latent state within the bacterial genome until certain stimuli, such as exposure to ultraviolet light or certain chemicals, trigger their reactivation. Upon activation, the prophage undergoes excision from the bacterial chromosome and begins the lytic cycle, wherein the viral genetic material is transcribed, translated, and packaged into viral particles. These newly-produced virus particles can then cause the lysis or destruction of the bacterial cell, releasing the progeny viruses.
The presence of prophages in bacteria can contribute to their genetic diversity, as they can transfer genes between different bacterial strains during the lysogenic phase. This gene transfer can provide selective advantages under certain environmental conditions and influence the evolution of the bacterial population.
In summary, a prophage is a dormant form of a bacteriophage that has integrated into the DNA of a bacteria and replicates passively with the host cell's genome until it becomes activated, leading to the release of viral progeny.
Common Misspellings for PROPHAGE
Etymology of PROPHAGE
The word "prophage" is derived from two Greek words: "pro" meaning "before" or "in front of", and "phage" meaning "to consume" or "to eat". In molecular biology, a prophage refers to a bacteriophage (a virus that infects bacteria) that integrates its DNA into the genome of its host bacterium and remains dormant. The term "prophage" describes this phase in the phage lifecycle, where the phage DNA exists in a latent state within the bacterial genome.
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