Definition

Relating to a type of viral infection where the virus integrates its genetic material into the host's DNA and can remain dormant before causing disease.

Example

The lysogenic cycle allows the virus to remain hidden within the host cell for a long time.

Conversation

Have you heard about the lysogenic cycle in viruses?

Yeah, I learned about it in biology class. It's fascinating!

It really is interesting how some viruses can remain dormant.

Exactly! The way they can incorporate into the host's DNA is mind-blowing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lysogenic → It is formed from "lyso-" (from Greek "lysis", meaning to loosen or dissolve) and "genic" (from Greek "genes", meaning born of or produced by). The term describes a process where a virus integrates its genetic material into the host's genome, leading to a state of dormancy or 'loosening' of the viral activity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lyso-' meaning to 'loosen' and 'genic' meaning 'produced by' — this helps you remember that 'lysogenic' refers to a viral state that is 'produced by' a 'loosening' of activity.

Visually Confused Words