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Question #47494
The Question
A virulent bacteriophage undergoes a targeted mutation that completely alters the nucleotide sequence of its 'ori' (Origin of Replication), causing it to lose recognition stringency for the host's replication machinery. If this mutant phage infects a susceptible E. coli cell, which of the following outcomes is most likely?
Options
- A.
Complete failure of viral transcription and translation, leading to immediate host cell survival.
- B.
Synthesis of viral capsids and proteins, but failure to assemble infectious progeny phages.
- C.
Obligate integration of the viral genome into the host chromosome to utilize the host's 'ori'.
- D.
Successful replication of the viral genome by hijacking the host's RNA polymerase for DNA synthesis.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Recombinant_DNA_Technology|Protein_Capsid_Adsorption|Naked_RNA_Uptake
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often conflate replication with transcription/translation, assuming an 'ori' mutation halts all viral activity.
The trap tests the understanding of genomic modularity—that DNA polymerase relies on the 'ori' for replication, while RNA polymerase relies on promoters for transcription, allowing protein synthesis to continue even if genome duplication fails.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biological Classification - Class 11 |
| Concept | Viroid vs Virus Distinction |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |