Modes of virus release and persistence: How is the process called in which infected cells continue to divide and simultaneously release mature virions from their surface for an extended period (for example, by budding)?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: productive infection

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Viruses can exit cells by lysis, budding, or exocytosis. Some infections are acute and cytolytic; others are persistent, with cells remaining viable while releasing virions. Naming these patterns correctly is key to understanding pathogenesis and antiviral targets.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Cells continue reproducing (non-lytic infection).
  • Virions are continuously extruded (e.g., budding through the plasma membrane).
  • The term sought should reflect ongoing virion production.



Concept / Approach:
A productive infection is one in which new virions are produced. When this production is sustained without immediate cell death, the scenario is often called a persistent productive infection. Among the given options, “productive infection” is the correct, standard term; the other phrases are not established virology terms.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Recognize that virion output occurs continuously and the cell survives.Map to the established terminology: productive (and persistent) infection.Choose “productive infection” as the best fitting option.



Verification / Alternative check:
Many enveloped viruses (e.g., hepatitis B, some retroviruses) bud from cells without immediate lysis, exemplifying productive persistence.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Inductive infection” and “resultant infection” are not standard terms; “all of these” therefore cannot be correct.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing productive, persistent, latent, and chronic terminology; assuming all productive infections are lytic.



Final Answer:
productive infection

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