Why are viruses important?

Answer 1

They can be reversed engineered. We can learn what a virus does, and how it attacks certain cells. From this, they can be applied to treat other more savage viruses, or in some cases my giving someone a small controlled dose of a virus, can stop them catching it later on in life when it can be more dangerous.

Answer 2

Viruses are very important in research such as Genetics and Molecular Biology. Viruses used in research are termed vectors which is a fancy way of saying something that transports something.

The reason for this importance is because they are the original, and best genetic engineers. Many viruses function by incorporating their genetic code into the host cell which make the cell produce more viruses instead of concentrating on its normal function. This is bad news for the host as their cells stop doing what they should be doing (and in some cases rupture in order to release all their newly created viruses).

Scientist can remove all of this nasty, virus making DNA producing a "gutted" vector, then they can insert their own favourite gene and therefore that gene is expressed in the host cell.

An example of how this could help in the real-world is by inserting the gene for Insulin (the protein absent or not functioning in diabetes sufferers) into a virus and then it will make a host cell produce insulin where it may not have done before. Alternatively you can just infect a simple bacteria which will then make lots of insulin for you to collect and use for the injections taken by diabetics.

It's worth mentioning that viruses have many disadvantages as vectors, and there are other non-viral vectors. However they are still very important in research and are providing exciting opportunities for treating genetic diseases.

Answer 3

Viruses are important in that they play a fairly large role in the life cycle. They are responsible for some of the most devastating outbreaks. As population control, they serve a role, for sure.

Interestingly enough, they have a new role in biotechnology. We now use viruses to deliver gene therapy, vaccines, and other beneficial items to people, animals or plants. So we can also say they are important for our future so that we can actually use them for good.

Answer 4

They keep the population in check otherwise it would just run away with itself and there would not be enough resources?

Fighting off viruses leads to alterations in genetic coding which may have some other benefit for future generations?

It's an unusual question and I will give it some thought.

Answer 5

What defines a virus?

Don't mean to sound all Matrix about it, but pretend you were an alien observing planet earth, what would you make of humans?

A virus replictaes and adapts to survive at the expense of other living creatures, but so do many other living creatures.

Answer 6

Hmm, they keep Nature on her toes?

Answer 7

I think that is a great question.

Answer 8

they r not dear