Some viruses attack cells by inserting their own DNA into the host cells' DNA. Why might it be simpler for these viruses to attack prokaryotic cells than eukaryotic cells?

Question

Prokaryotic cells have less DNA than do eukaryotic cells.

Unlike eukaryotic cells, prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus.

The cell wall in prokaryotic cells is a less effective barrier.

The rapid growth of prokaryotic cells generates more viruses.

Answer 1

The statement that is most relevant to why it might be simpler for viruses to attack prokaryotic cells than eukaryotic cells is:

Unlike eukaryotic cells, prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus.

This is significant because prokaryotic cells have a simpler structure without membrane-bound organelles, including the nucleus. As a result, the viral DNA can more easily access the cellular machinery necessary for replication and transcription without the need to navigate through a nuclear envelope, as would be necessary in eukaryotic cells. In addition, prokaryotic DNA is typically circular and more accessible for viral integration.

Other options like the amount of DNA, the presence of a cell wall, or rapid growth rates pertain less directly to the ease of viral infection compared to the lack of a nucleus in prokaryotic cells.