Lytic Cycle

The lytic cycle is a biological process in which a virus "lyses" a host cell, leading to its destruction. During the lytic cycle, the virus enters the host cell, hijacks its genetic machinery and uses it to replicate itself and make more viruses. The newly made viruses then break out of the host cell, releasing them into the surrounding environment and allowing them to spread and infect more cells. This cycle is especially important because it's the mechanism by which many viruses cause disease in humans, animals and plants. Research into understanding the lytic cycle is essential for developing antiviral treatments and vaccines.