Choose 2 out of the 3 questions to answer. If you answer all 3, the last question will automatically be skipped for grading. (4 points each, 8 points in total)

 a, Select one DNA or RNA virus family and a representative human virus from that family. Describe:

The virus family name and genome type (DNA/RNA, single or double-stranded, enveloped or non-enveloped).

The disease(s) it causes and its main route of transmission.

Whether the infection is acute, chronic, latent, or persistent, and how this relates to its viral replication mechanism.

One treatment or prevention strategy (e.g., antiviral, vaccine, or public health measure) and why it is effective.

b. Define the term virulence as it applies to a pathogen, and explain how it contributes to disease severity. Address the following points:

Definition – What is virulence, and how is it different from pathogenicity?

Factors influencing virulence – Name 4 pathogen traits that affect virulence 

Mechanisms countering host defenses – Name and explain at least two ways pathogens increase virulence by evading or resisting host defenses 

Example – Provide one pathogen example that demonstrates one or more of these virulence factors.

c. Differentiate between vertical and horizontal gene transfer in bacteria. Address the following points:

Definition and direction of transfer

Vertical gene transfer: describe how genetic material is inherited from parent to offspring during reproduction.

Horizontal gene transfer: name and briefly describe the three main mechanisms. 

Bioengineering application -- Identify which process is most commonly used to create recombinant bacteria and explain why it is useful in genetic engineering.