👉 The electron-infection model describes a simplified mechanism by which viruses, particularly bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria), can cause infections. In this model, an electron, typically from an external source such as sunlight or an electron donor, is absorbed by the virus. This absorbed electron is then transferred to a specific site on the viral capsid, often near a nucleic acid (DNA or RNA). The energy from the electron excites the viral component, leading to structural changes that facilitate the injection of the viral genetic material into the host bacterium. Once inside, the viral DNA or RNA hijacks the bacterial machinery to replicate and produce new viral particles, ultimately leading to the infection and potential destruction of the host cell. This process highlights the unique and efficient way viruses can exploit external energy sources to invade and replicate within their hosts.
