Are Viruses Alive?! In this research paper, I will give a brief discussion as to why I believe that viruses are not alive. As well as discuss the common disease Polio. .
I believe that Viruses are not alive! All viruses contain either RNA or DNA. Unlike animal and plant cells, viruses do not contain both. The DNA or RNA core of a virus is surrounded by a protein coat called a capsid. The capsid protects the nucleic acid. For instance, they do not meet the Seven Characteristics of Life, which are the following: .
1-All organisms are composed of cells. Viruses are not made up of cells. Therefor they are neither Eukaryotes or Prokaryotes. Viruses do not have a nucleus nor do they have complex inner membranes. Compared to animal and plant cells, viruses are relatively simple. .
2-Living things are highly organized, specific structures perform specific functions. Viruses are not in a kingdom of their own, leaving scientists still to wonder, are viruses alive or not? .
3-All organisms respond to their environment. Viruses only respond to their environment when they are attached to their host cells. Viruses only exist and make more viruses. .
4-All organisms use energy for growth and maintenance. For most organisms, the sun is the source of energy, but for viruses, they depend on the host cell for energy. That makes viruses Heterotrophs, which are organisms that cannot make their own food. .
5-Organisms reproduce. Viruses don't reproduce, but they do replicate. There are two types of viral replication, the Lytic Cycle which is the viral replication process that rapidly kills a host cell. The other type of viral replication is called the Lysogenic Cycle, which is the replication process in which a virus does not immediately kill a host cell. When viruses replicate, they have nothing to do with Meiosis or Mitosis unlike most organisms that reproduce Sexually and Asexually. .
6-Organisms grow and develop. To grow and develop, once again the virus relies on the host cell.
