Question

Adenovirus is a naked icosahedral virus that can be easily inactivated by heat, alcohols, or by ultra violet (UV) radiation.

Of these methods, which one is most likely to prevent virus eclipse, and which one is most likely to allow it to occur? Explain your answer fully?

Answer 1

The eclipse phase of the virus is defined as the stage when the virus has entered the cell, but no progeny virions are created. It is the period between addition of virus and the appearance of assembled virus progeny inside the host cell. It requires attachement and entry of virus into the cell. Ultraviolet radiation prevents attachment of virus to the cell and therefore prevents virus eclipse. Heat allows virus to get attached to the cell and therefore will allow virus eclipse to occur.