Question

The main purpose of the early viral genes that are expressed is to:

Options

A
Take over the host machinery
B
Synthesize nucleic acids
C
To remove the coat of the virus
D
Both A and B

Explanation

The main purpose of the early viral genes that are expressed is to take over the host machinery and synthesize nucleic acids. So, option D is correct.

It is true that early viral genes are expressed to take over the host machinery. The primary function of early viral genes is to initiate the viral replication cycle and prepare the host cell for viral infection. This includes processes such as the synthesis of viral proteins and enzymes necessary for viral replication.

Early viral genes are also involved in the synthesis of nucleic acids The synthesis of nucleic acids is a crucial step in the viral replication cycle.

The removal of the viral coat is not typically a function of early viral genes. The viral coat, or capsid, is usually disassembled or degraded upon entry of the virus into the host cell. Early viral genes are involved in other essential processes, such as hijacking the host machinery and initiating viral replication.

The correct answer is "Both A and B," as the early viral genes are expressed to take over the host machinery and synthesize nucleic acids. These processes are essential for viral replication and the production of new viral particles.