Phage genome incorporated with host DNA is called:

Correct answer: C. Prophage

  • A. Bacteriophage
  • B. Viroids
  • C. Prophage
  • D. Prions

Explanation

A prophage is the latent form of a bacteriophage (a virus that infects bacteria) when it integrates its genetic material into the bacterial chromosome. In this state, the viral DNA is replicated along with the bacterial DNA during cell division without causing immediate harm to the host. The prophage can remain dormant for extended periods, but under certain conditions, it may reactivate and enter the lytic cycle, leading to the production of new viral particles and the lysis of the bacterial cell. Prophages can play a role in horizontal gene transfer, contributing to genetic diversity among bacteria and sometimes providing advantageous traits, such as antibiotic resistance. Understanding prophages is important in microbiology and virology, particularly in studying bacterial evolution and the dynamics of bacterial infections.

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