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Virus

Virus

An acellular infectious agent whose replication depends on host-cell machinery.

Overview

EXPLORE BY LEVEL

A is not a cell. It carries genetic instructions inside a protective structure and can make copies only after entering suitable host cells.

Quick Facts

AT A GLANCE
TopicMicrobiology & Immunity

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ConceptMajor Human Cell TypesExplore representative cell types across blood, immunity, organs, metabolism, the nervous system, and reproduction. This is a guided starting set, not an exhaustive inventory of every human cell state.ConceptAmino AcidsMeet the 20 standard amino acids that build most proteins, plus selenocysteine and pyrrolysine, two rare amino acids that some organisms encode directly.ConceptThe CellThe smallest unit that can carry out the processes of life.ConceptElectron CarriersSmall molecules such as NADH that collect and deliver electrons between metabolic reactions.

Recommended Reading

Trusted references for learning more about Virus.

textbookStructure of Prokaryotes: Bacteria and ArchaeaOpenStax Biology 2e databaseEbola Disease BasicsCenters for Disease Control and Prevention
Research Claims

Viral taxonomy is maintained by ICTV and is regularly revised. Genome architecture, virion properties, host range, and evolutionary relationships inform classification.