A hallmark characteristic of viruses is their ability to change. Changes in the genetic information of viruses are known as mutations. Some mutations will have no impact on the viral genes leading to an exact copy of the expressed genes. Other mutations will change a single or multiple proteins expressed by the virus. Leading to either an equally-adapted virus, a better-adapted one, or a defective virus incapable of replicating itself.
Viruses as dynamical systems
Viruses as dynamical systems
Viruses as dynamical systems
A hallmark characteristic of viruses is their ability to change. Changes in the genetic information of viruses are known as mutations. Some mutations will have no impact on the viral genes leading to an exact copy of the expressed genes. Other mutations will change a single or multiple proteins expressed by the virus. Leading to either an equally-adapted virus, a better-adapted one, or a defective virus incapable of replicating itself.