Question

What do the terms host cell and host range mean?

Short answer

A host cell is a living cell which a virus uses to replicate itself. The host range, on the other hand, is the group of organisms which a virus or microbe can infect, which can vary in diversity.

Step-by-step solution

Define the term 'Host Cell'

A host cell is a living cell in which a virus reproduces. It is the cell that the virus infects and uses to make new copies of itself. Typically, the virus will use the host cell's machinery and metabolism to produce new particles, often resulting in the death of the host cell.

Define the term 'Host Range'

The host range refers to the spectrum of hosts that a virus, bacterium, or other microbe can infect. It can be broad (able to infect many different kinds of organisms) or narrow (only able to infect a few or even just one species). The host range is determined by specific host-pathogen interactions, which can be influenced by cellular mechanisms, environmental conditions, and other factors.