Biological Sciences

Click here to return to the gallery.

Lytic cycle of T4 bacteriophage infecting E. coli with DNA replication and release.

Illustration of the lytic cycle showing T4 bacteriophage infecting E. coli, with viral DNA injection, protein synthesis, replication, assembly, and host cell lysis to release new virions.

This illustration details the lytic cycle of a T4 bacteriophage, showing how the virus infects an E. coli bacterium and hijacks its cellular machinery for replication. The cycle begins with the bacteriophage attaching to the host cell and injecting its viral DNA. Inside the bacterium, early viral proteins shut down host processes, and late proteins facilitate viral replication. As new virions assemble, the host cell undergoes lysis, releasing numerous bacteriophages.

This diagram is ideal for microbiology textbooks, virology journals, educational e-books, or articles focused on bacteriophages, viral replication, and host-virus interactions.

We can provide sample images or create custom illustrations tailored to your projects. If you are looking for an illustration of this type, or from another subject area, you can contact us to discuss your needs.

Network Graphics / Division of Abramson & Wickham Graphics Inc.
All rights reserved.