How Do You Spell VIRAL PLAQUE?

Pronunciation: [vˈa͡ɪ͡əɹə͡l plˈak] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the term "viral plaque" is pronounced /ˈvaɪrəl plæk/. The first syllable, "vir", is pronounced with a long "i" sound, while the second syllable, "-al", is pronounced with a short "a" sound. The word plaque is pronounced as it is spelt, with a double "l" and a silent "e". The term refers to a visible patch of virus-infected cells in a laboratory culture dish. The correct spelling and pronunciation of scientific terms is important for effective communication in the scientific community.

VIRAL PLAQUE Meaning and Definition

1. Viral plaque refers to a distinct area of cellular destruction or cell death observed in a group of cells, typically caused by the replication and spread of a viral infection. It is characterized by the formation of visible, usually circular or oval, clear zones or patches within a layer of host cells. These plaques are formed as a result of the lytic cycle of a virus, where the virus enters the host cells, replicates, and then lyses or kills the infected cells to release progeny viruses.

   The term "viral plaque" is commonly used in virology and microbiology to describe the visible manifestation of viral infection in a cell culture, most frequently observed in bacteriophages. It serves as a useful tool in assessing the efficiency and characteristics of viral replication, as well as in quantifying viral infections or evaluating the effectiveness of antiviral agents.

   The size and appearance of viral plaques can vary based on several factors, such as the specific virus involved, the host cells being infected, and the environmental conditions. Larger plaques typically indicate a more potent or efficient viral infection, while smaller or less distinct plaques may suggest a weaker or less successful viral replication.

   Overall, viral plaques are a crucial aspect of viral growth analysis, often used in research, pharmaceutical development, and diagnostic laboratories to better understand the behavior, pathogenicity, and control of viral infections.

Etymology of VIRAL PLAQUE

The term "viral plaque" has its roots in the field of virology and medical sciences. Here is a breakdown of the etymology of each part of the term:

1. Viral: The word "viral" originates from the Latin word "virus", which means "poison" or "slimy liquid". It was initially used to describe any harmful or toxic substance. In the late 19th century, the term was specifically associated with infectious agents that cause diseases. The term "virus" in modern biology refers to small infectious agents that replicate only inside the living cells of other organisms.

2. Plaque: The word "plaque" has its roots in Old French and Latin. In Old French, "plaque" meant "a thin, flat plate", while in Latin, it meant "tablet" or "plate".