Difference between Virus and Virion

Difference Between Virus and Virion

The table below highlights the differences between virus and virion:...

What is a Virus?

A virus is a minute, non-cellular structure comprising of a nucleic acid molecule covered by a protein coat. It is an intracellular parasite. It has the ability to proliferate and invade the living cells of plants, animals, and other microorganisms; however, it can only replicate itself within a particular host cell. A virus particle typically consists of a single-stranded or double-stranded, DNA or RNA genome, covered by a protein coat called capsid. Viruses have various sizes spanning from 10–400 nm in diameter....

Characteristics of Viruses

Following are a few characteristic of viruses:...

What is a Virion?

A virion is not the same as a virus but it is a virus in its extracellular phase. It is the complete, active, infectious form of a virus that exists outside the host cell. It is an extracellular parasite. It is composed of either a DNA or RNA genome, and is encased in an outer protein shell termed as capsid. It also contains an additional outer membrane made up of lipids called the envelope....

Similarities Between Virus and Virion

Following are the similarities between virus and virion:...

Conclusion: Difference between Virus and Virion

A virus is a broader term that encompasses the entire infectious agent, including its various stages of the life cycle (inside and outside the host cell). On the other hand, a virion specifically refers to the extracellular, infectious form of a virus, which is the particle responsible for initiating new infections....

FAQs on Virus and Virion

Is a Virion the Same as a Virus?...