Phages, Bacteria, Viruses, Plasmids & Virions

[Chip (OP)]

Bacteria Disarm Phages by Disrupting Their Tail Assembly !

Let's break down each of these terms:

### **Phage (Bacteriophage)**

- **Definition**: A type of virus that specifically infects and replicates within bacteria.

- **Characteristics**: Phages consist of genetic material (DNA or RNA) encased in a protein coat. They attach to bacterial cells, inject their genetic material, and use the bacterial machinery to produce more phages.

Isn't that behaviour like a retrovirus or a"retrobacteria" lol ?

### **Bacteria**

- **Definition**: Single-celled microorganisms that lack a membrane-bound nucleus.

- **Characteristics**: They can be found in various environments, have diverse shapes (spherical, rod-shaped, spiral), and can be beneficial or harmful to humans. Bacteria have their own DNA and can reproduce independently.

### **Virus**

- **Definition**: A microscopic infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism.

- **Characteristics**: Viruses consist of genetic material (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat. Some viruses have an outer lipid envelope. They infect host cells to replicate, often causing diseases.

### **Plasmid**

- **Definition**: Small, circular DNA molecules found in bacteria and """some archaea""".
.

- **Characteristics**: Plasmids are independent of the chromosomal DNA and can replicate on their own. They often carry genes that provide advantageous traits, such as antibiotic resistance.

### **Virion**

- **Definition**: The complete, infective form of a virus outside a host cell.

- **Characteristics**: A virion includes the viral genome encased in a protein coat called a capsid. Some virions also have an outer lipid envelope. This form is capable of infecting new host cells.

I hope this helps clarify the differences! If you have more questions or need further details, feel free to ask. 😊