Which of the following is not considered a virus?

Study for the JLAB Biology SOL Test. Utilize our comprehensive flashcards and multiple choice questions, each accompanied by hints and explanations. Prepare extensively for your exam with ease!

The correct choice indicates that "DNA" with a cell wall-like structure is not considered a virus. Viruses are defined as infectious agents that require a host cell to replicate and typically consist of genetic material (either DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protein coat known as a capsid. In contrast to living cells, which possess complex structures including cell walls and organelles, viruses lack these components and do not have the machinery necessary for metabolism or reproduction outside a host.

A capsid protein is an essential component of a virus, as it forms the protective coat around the viral genetic material, allowing the virus to attach to and enter host cells. Bacteriophages are specific types of viruses that infect bacteria, showcasing a clear example of viral structure and function. Retroviruses are a class of viruses that use RNA as their genetic material and have the unique capability of reverse transcribing their RNA into DNA after infection of a host cell.

Therefore, the option indicating "DNA" with a cell wall-like structure does not fit the definition of a virus, as it suggests a structural complexity more akin to that of living organisms, rather than the simplified structure characteristic of viruses.

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