**Core Concept**
The rabies virus is a lyssavirus that causes fatal encephalitis in humans. Inactivation of the virus is crucial for the production of safe rabies vaccines.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Rabies virus is inactivated by beta-propiolactone (BPL), a chemical disinfectant that alkylates the viral genome, thereby inactivating its replication potential. BPL treatment is commonly used in the production of inactivated rabies vaccines. The heat-stable nature of BPL allows it to maintain its inactivating properties even after the vaccine is freeze-dried or lyophilized.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Ultraviolet (UV) light is not a suitable method for inactivating rabies virus, as it may not penetrate the viral capsid effectively.
**Option B:** Chloroform, a solvent used for dissolving fats and lipids, is not effective in inactivating the rabies virus.
**Option C:** Autoclaving, a process that uses high-pressure steam to sterilize equipment, is not suitable for inactivating the rabies virus, as it may not penetrate the viral capsid effectively.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Rabies virus is highly susceptible to inactivation by beta-propiolactone, making it a crucial step in the production of safe and effective rabies vaccines. Remember the "BPL" acronym to associate the correct answer with this key concept.
**Correct Answer:** B.
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