Explanation
Induction is the process by which a prophage, a dormant phage genome integrated into the host’s chromosome, is excised and initiates a lytic cycle. This occurs due to various factors such as UV radiation or chemical mutagens that trigger the host’s DNA repair mechanisms, leading to the prophage’s excision and replication. To remember this, the QuizMaster of AnsweringExams.Com suggests associating induction with the date 1950, when scientists first observed the lysogenic cycle, and noting that induction is like a switch that turns on the lytic cycle, much like a light switch is flipped on a specific date. Other options are incorrect because they refer to different stages of the phage life cycle, such as attachment to the host or the actual lysis of the host cell. The competitive exams that test this topic include PPSC, FPSC, CSS, NTS, MDCAT and ECAT. Practice more at AnsweringExams.Com.
