The virus: T2 bacteriophage

Head

DNANeck

Collar

Sheath

Base plateTailfiber

Figure 11.2 T2 and the Bacteriophage Reproduction Cycle

Life cycle of the T2 bacteriophage

Infection

E. coli

Figure 11.2 T2 and the Bacteriophage Reproduction Cycle

1. The bacteriophage attaches to E. coli and

injects its DNA.

2. Viral genes take over the host’s

synthetic machinery.

3. The cell breaks open, releasing about

200 viruses.