Noun
/ˈlɪtɪk ˈsaɪkəl/
The term "lytic cycle" refers to a process in virology where a virus infects a host cell, replicates itself, and ultimately causes the cell to break open (lyse), releasing new viral particles. The lytic cycle contrasts with the lysogenic cycle where the viral DNA integrates into the host's genome without immediately killing the host cell. The lytic cycle is commonly discussed in scientific contexts, particularly in biology and virology.
The term is primarily used in written contexts, such as academic papers, textbooks, and scientific articles. It is less common in everyday oral language but may appear in specialized discussions about microbiology or virology.
The lytic cycle is a critical stage in the life cycle of bacteriophages.
(El ciclo lítico es una etapa crítica en el ciclo de vida de los bacteriófagos.)
During the lytic cycle, viral particles are assembled and eventually burst out of the host cell.
(Durante el ciclo lítico, las partículas virales se ensamblan y finalmente estallan de la célula huésped.)
Scientists study the lytic cycle to understand how viruses propagate and cause disease.
(Los científicos estudian el ciclo lítico para comprender cómo los virus se propagan y causan enfermedades.)
The phrase "lytic cycle" does not appear in common idiomatic expressions due to its specific scientific context. However, it can relate to broader themes in biology, such as viral behavior, life cycles, and cellular processes. Here are some relevant idiomatic expressions and usage of similar themes:
"The virus is on a rampage, quickly moving through the lytic cycle."
(El virus está haciendo estragos, moviéndose rápidamente a través del ciclo lítico.)
"Once a cell is caught in the lytic cycle, it stands little chance of survival."
(Una vez que una célula es atrapada en el ciclo lítico, tiene pocas posibilidades de supervivencia.)
"Understanding the lytic cycle reveals how rapidly infections can spread."
(Comprender el ciclo lítico revela cuán rápidamente pueden propagarse las infecciones.)
The term "lytic" comes from the Greek word "lytikos," meaning "able to dissolve," which is derived from "lyein," meaning "to loosen" or "to dissolve." The word "cycle" comes from the Greek "kyklos," meaning "circle" or "ring." Therefore, "lytic cycle" describes a process involving the dissolution or destruction of the host cell in a circular pattern of viral replication.