UNITED ARAB EMIRATES UNIVERSITY
Department of Biological Sciences
BIOM339 - Fundamental Virology
Structure and Classification of Viruses: A Comprehensive
Overview
Introduction
Viruses are the smallest and simplest known biological entities, capable
of infecting a wide range of organisms, from bacteria to humans.
Despite their diminutive size, viruses possess a remarkable ability to
replicate and cause disease, making them a significant global health
concern. Understanding the structure and classification of viruses is
crucial for developing effective antiviral strategies and vaccines.
Structure of Viruses
Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they can only
replicate within the living cells of a host organism. They consist of a
simple yet intricate structure composed of three basic components:
1. Genetic Material: Viruses carry their genetic material, either DNA or
RNA, which encodes the instructions for viral replication and protein
synthesis.
Department of Biological Sciences
BIOM339 - Fundamental Virology
Structure and Classification of Viruses: A Comprehensive
Overview
Introduction
Viruses are the smallest and simplest known biological entities, capable
of infecting a wide range of organisms, from bacteria to humans.
Despite their diminutive size, viruses possess a remarkable ability to
replicate and cause disease, making them a significant global health
concern. Understanding the structure and classification of viruses is
crucial for developing effective antiviral strategies and vaccines.
Structure of Viruses
Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they can only
replicate within the living cells of a host organism. They consist of a
simple yet intricate structure composed of three basic components:
1. Genetic Material: Viruses carry their genetic material, either DNA or
RNA, which encodes the instructions for viral replication and protein
synthesis.
