Helper virus
Helper virus
A helper virus is a type of virus that facilitates the multiplication or survival of other viruses. The term is often used in the context of virology and molecular biology.
Pronunciation
- IPA: /ˈhɛlpər ˈvaɪrəs/
Etymology
The term "helper virus" is derived from the English words "helper" (meaning one that helps) and "virus" (from the Latin virus meaning poison or venom).
Definition
A helper virus is a virus that provides functions or conditions necessary for the replication of certain defective viruses or satellite viruses. These viruses lack some necessary genes for replication and therefore require the presence of a helper virus to replicate.
Related Terms
- Defective virus: A virus that lacks the necessary genes for replication and therefore requires the presence of a helper virus to replicate.
- Satellite virus: A type of virus that depends on the co-infection of a host cell with a helper virus for its replication.
- Virology: The study of viruses and virus-like agents, including their taxonomy, disease-producing properties, cultivation and genetics.
- Molecular biology: The branch of biology that deals with the molecular basis of biological activity, including the interactions between the various systems of a cell.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Helper virus
- Wikipedia's article - Helper virus
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