Question

The genetic material of ØX174 is:

• A. ds DNA
• B. ss DNA
• C. ds RNA
• D. ss RNA

Answer 1

Answer:

B. ss DNA

Understanding ØX174 and its Genetic Material

Key Characteristics of ØX174:

• ØX174 (also written as phiX174 or Phage phiX174) is a small, single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) bacteriophage.

• Bacteriophages, or simply phages, are viruses that specifically infect bacteria.

• ØX174 was the first DNA-based genome to be sequenced. This monumental achievement was completed by Frederick Sanger's group in 1977.

• Its genome is circular and consists of approximately 5,386 nucleotides.

Significance of ssDNA Genomes in Virology:

• Viruses can have either DNA or RNA as their genetic material, and this material can be single-stranded or double-stranded.

• Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) viruses, like ØX174, represent a distinct class of viruses.

• The ssDNA genome must be converted into a double-stranded form within the host cell before it can be replicated and transcribed, a process that relies on host cell machinery.

• This conversion process is a critical step in the viral life cycle and a potential target for antiviral strategies.