Biology How Do Viruses Mutate?

Thread starter Aka
Start date Oct 26, 2005
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Mutation Project

AI Thread Summary

Viruses mutate through errors made during the replication of their genetic material, specifically by DNA polymerase for DNA viruses and reverse transcriptase for RNA viruses. These replication errors can lead to changes in the virus's genetic code. Additionally, mutagens can influence the mutation rate by causing further alterations in the viral genome. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for studying viral evolution and developing treatments. The discussion highlights the importance of both replication errors and external factors in viral mutation.

Oct 26, 2005

Aka

I have a project to do with viral mutation, but i haven't found any information how the virus changes, just that it does. can anyone tell me exactly how the virus mutates? Thanks

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Oct 26, 2005

iansmith

Staff Emeritus

Science Advisor

Gold Member

A virus can mutates like any other organism. The DNA polymerase and, in the case of RNA viruses, the reverse transcriptase makes error copying the DNA or RNA strand.

Mutanogen can also have an impact.

Oct 26, 2005

Aka

Thanks

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