Thursday, February 2, 2012

How Viruses Evolve, and in Some Cases, Become Deadly



Resource:



Summary:

Scientists at the University of Michigan discovered how a virus called Lambda can evolve to infect host cells. It took scientists 4 mutations to fully accomplish. This virus infects bacteria, particularly the E. coli bacterium. It isn't dangerous, but it demonstrates how viruses can evolve deadly traits. The scientists were very surprised to see the virus evolve to a new function, the ability to attack and enter a cell through a new receptor.


Critique:

I found this discovery to be very interesting.


Impact:

I think this discovery will help scientists learn more about viruses and how they can discover new ones, and be able to treat them.

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