MDCAT · CHAPTER 1
Acellular Life
From capsids and envelopes to genome classes—a connected explanation of how viruses reproduce without being cells.
Your study notes
01 / LESSON
Build the explanation.
- Explain why viruses are obligate intracellular parasites.
- Relate genome type to the route used to make viral mRNA.
- Distinguish virions, viroids, prions and proviruses.
02 / NOTES
The essentials, in one place.
- Viruses lack cellular metabolism and protein-synthesis machinery.
- Capsids are protein; envelopes are host-derived lipids containing viral proteins.
- Every virus must produce positive-sense mRNA for translation.
- Genome type determines the enzymes and intermediates required.
03 / ACTIVITY
Test the idea by changing something.
Predict the result first, run the activity, then explain what changed and why.
04 / DIAGRAM
Make the connections visible.
Stores viral genetic information.
Protects the genome and helps delivery.
Host-derived lipid layer in some viruses.
Recognise and attach to host receptors.
Cover the labels, redraw the sequence or comparison, and explain each connection aloud.
See diagrams in the full explanation ↗05 / QUIZ
Retrieve before you reread.
Build a timed test from this chapter’s 100 practice questions. Questions and options are shuffled; missed answers feed your revision notebook.
Original practice items, including related concept variants; not official examination questions.06 / REVISION SHEET
Take the chapter away with you.
A print-friendly sheet brings together the learning targets, key points, concept diagram, written recall prompts and applied MCQs. Add the answer key when you are ready to check.
Print / save the chapter sheet ↗