Asfuvirales

[[File:{{{image}}}|250px|alt=|]] Authority:

Asfuvirales
Kingdom:	Heunggongvirae
Phylum:	Nucleocytoviricota
Class:	Megaviricetes
Order:	Asfuvirales
Family:	'

Asfuvirales is an order of viruses within the class Megaviricetes, phylum Nucleocytoviricota, and domain Duplodnaviria. This order is notable for containing viruses that infect a wide range of hosts, including both vertebrates and invertebrates. The most well-known family within this order is the Asfarviridae, which includes the African swine fever virus (ASFV), a significant pathogen in domestic pigs and wild boar.

Characteristics

Viruses in the order Asfuvirales are large, double-stranded DNA viruses. They have complex virions and are known for their ability to replicate in the cytoplasm of the host cell. The virions are typically enveloped, and the genome is linear, encoding a large number of proteins.

Genome

The genome of Asfuvirales viruses is composed of double-stranded DNA and can range from 170 to 190 kilobase pairs in length. The genome encodes for a variety of proteins, including those involved in DNA replication, transcription, and host immune evasion.

Replication Cycle

The replication cycle of Asfuvirales viruses occurs in the cytoplasm of the host cell. After entry into the host cell, the viral DNA is released into the cytoplasm, where it is transcribed and replicated. The assembly of new virions occurs in viral factories, which are specialized areas within the cytoplasm.

Pathogenesis

The most studied virus within the Asfuvirales order is the African swine fever virus (ASFV), which causes African swine fever, a highly contagious and often lethal disease in pigs. ASFV is transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated feed, or through vectors such as ticks.

Research and Impact

Research on Asfuvirales, particularly ASFV, is of great importance due to its impact on agriculture and food security. Efforts are ongoing to develop effective vaccines and control measures to prevent the spread of African swine fever.

Also see

• African swine fever virus
• Asfarviridae
• Nucleocytoviricota
• Duplodnaviria