Which of the following is a stage of the virus life cycle?

• A. Incorporation
• B. Detection
• C. Elimination
• D. Launch

Answer: (A)

Placing the viral genome into the host’s genetic material is a stage where the virus becomes part of the host, enabling its genes to be read by the cell’s machinery. For many viruses, especially retroviruses, the crucial step after entry is integrating viral DNA into the host genome. This incorporation allows the host cell to transcribe viral genes and produce viral proteins, kicking off replication and assembly of new virions. Without this integration, certain viruses can’t effectively use the host to propagate.

The other options don’t describe recognized stages of viral replication. Detection refers to the host immune system recognizing the virus, elimination is immune clearance, and launch isn’t a standard term for a viral life-cycle stage. So, incorporation best fits as a stage of the virus life cycle.