A virus consists of DNA or RNA enclosed by a protein coat. When a virus invades a host cell the protein coat is shed and the viral DNA or RNA becomes part of the host cell's own DNA. When a virus has taken over a host cell and more virus arises, which also may infect other cells.
So are viruses living or not?
Viruses consist of complex molecules and contain many of the characteristics that define life, however they lack one particular important characteristic of life which is the ability to reproduce on their own. Viruses require a host cell in order to reproduce.
So are viruses living or not?
Viruses consist of complex molecules and contain many of the characteristics that define life, however they lack one particular important characteristic of life which is the ability to reproduce on their own. Viruses require a host cell in order to reproduce.
