Question

question 2 of 20 :
select the best answer for the question.

1. cells have receptors on their surfaces to sense their environment and to communicate with other cells. viruses use these cell receptors to

a. insert their genetic material into the cellular genetic material.

b. enter the cell.

c. cause the cell to disintegrate, or lyse.

d. cause the cell to move to an area well suited for viral replication.

mark for review (will be highlighted on the review page)
<< previous question
next question >>

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Viruses insert genetic material after entering, not via receptors for entry. Receptors are for attachment/entry, not direct genetic insertion.
• Option B: Viruses use cell surface receptors to attach to cells and then enter. This is a key step in viral infection—binding to receptors allows them to gain entry into the host cell.
• Option C: Cell lysis (disintegration) happens later in the viral cycle (e.g., when new viruses are released), not via receptor interaction for entry.
• Option D: Viruses don't cause cells to move; they infect cells and replicate within them, not direct cell movement via receptors.

Answer:

B. enter the cell.