Naked virus

Naked Virus

A naked virus is a type of virus that lacks an envelope or outer layer. This is in contrast to enveloped viruses, which are surrounded by a lipid bilayer derived from the host cell. Naked viruses are also known as non-enveloped viruses.

Structure

The structure of a naked virus is relatively simple compared to that of an enveloped virus. It consists of a nucleocapsid, which is a combination of the virus's nucleic acid (either DNA or RNA) and a protein coat known as a capsid. The capsid protects the nucleic acid and aids in the transfer of the viral genome from one host cell to another.

Replication

The replication process of naked viruses differs from that of enveloped viruses. Naked viruses enter the host cell by endocytosis or by translocation. Once inside the cell, the virus uncoats and releases its nucleic acid, which then uses the host cell's machinery to replicate. The newly formed viruses are released from the host cell by lysis, a process that destroys the cell.

Pathogenesis

Naked viruses are often more resistant to environmental conditions than enveloped viruses. This is because the absence of a lipid envelope makes them less susceptible to organic solvents and detergents. As a result, naked viruses can survive for longer periods outside a host, increasing their potential for transmission.

Examples

Examples of naked viruses include the poliovirus, adenovirus, and papillomavirus. These viruses cause diseases such as polio, adenovirus infections, and HPV infections, respectively.

See also

• Virus classification
• Viral envelope
• Viral replication

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