Animal Viruses & Common Cell Biology

A virus is a type of microorganism that is able to multiply within a host cell without any type of external support. Viruses can infect many types of living organisms, such as plants, bacteria, and even animals. Viruses have a simple structure, and so a microscope is required to visibly see them. When a virus spreads, it is often referred to as a pathogen.

Many different types of viruses can exist, but only a few types are responsible for disease. The names of the virus types are often very specific, as well. A virus that causes infection of the lymph nodes is called a lymph virus, for example. There are some viruses that cause diseases of the heart, respiratory system, nervous system, or reproductive system, among other types.

Common cold: A common cold can be caused by viral replication within the body. This usually happens during the winter months when people tend to be more susceptible to infections. The first signs of a cold include a general feeling of being sick, swollen glands, and sore throat. A slightly later stage in the cold will have you feeling chills all over your body.

Hepatitis A virus (HAV): Hepatitis A is one of the most common viral replications that people suffer. It is also the simplest to deal with, since antibodies are available which help to fight off the infection. This virus attacks the liver, and so is typically found in people who already have an infection. An acute infection can cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, mild fever, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, weakness, irritability, dizziness, joint pain, vomiting, nausea, and vomiting.

Lyme disease: Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called spirochete. This particular bacterium enters the body through tick bites. Once it establishes itself in the skin, it begins to produce a biological replicating agent known as spirochete. This bacterium then goes on to attack other body components, such as joints and blood vessels. The symptoms of this condition include redness, warmth, headache, and swelling.

Common examples of viral cell biology are mentioned above. These are just a few of the major factors that drive cellular division within living matter. Cell biology is a complex and ever changing field, but its study and understanding will hopefully continue to contribute to the betterment of our health and well being for all living things.