Viral Structure and Replication

Start with viral structure

Begin with the flashcards on the structure of viruses. They ask about the virion, the purposes of its capsid and how particular viruses appear under an electron microscope. Use the questions to check which terms you recognize, then return to the cards that need more attention.

The page also lists mind maps called Viral Structure and Viruses. One Viruses map brings together structure, replication, variation and classification. Another includes examples of viral shapes and genome types. Open them to see how their coverage differs.

Follow replication step by step

The Virus Replication mind map provides an order for studying the process: entry, post-entry, gene expression, genome replication, and assembly and egress. Follow those branches in sequence and note the examples of receptors used by influenza and rabies viruses.

Next, look at the Virus Infection and Replication flowchart. It describes how positive- and negative-strand RNA relate to viral protein synthesis and transcription. Use it alongside the mind map to connect a sequence of steps with examples of what happens within them.

Combine maps and quizzes

After studying the maps, try the quiz titled Viral replication strategies. Use the quiz to check your understanding, then return to the relevant map branches for another look. You can also use the flashcards on viral genomes to practice questions about positive- and negative-strand RNA viruses.

For a different focus, the page lists a quiz on replication of DNA genomes. Its title can help you choose it when you want to focus on that part of the topic.

Place the topic in the unit

Viral Structure and Replication is a section of General Virology in Microbiology and immunology. The resources offer different ways to study this section, from short questions to visual sequences. Choose a resource format and work through the topic at your own pace.