The main purpose of studying viruses lies in their impact on human health, ecology, and technology. Viruses can cause diseases, thus understanding their biology aids in developing vaccines and treatments. Additionally, studying viruses helps scientists learn about gene therapy and the functions of host cells. Furthermore, viruses can be utilized in biotechnology for gene delivery and as tools in molecular biology research. Overall, the study of viruses is essential for managing public health crises and enhancing our understanding of biological processes.