Bidensovirus

A genus of viruses that infect insects

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Bidensovirus
Kingdom:	Adnaviria
Phylum:	Cossaviricota
Class:	Papovaviricetes
Order:	Bidnavirales
Family:	Bidnaviridae

Bidensovirus is a genus of viruses within the family Bidnaviridae. These viruses are known to infect insects, particularly the silkworm, Bombyx mori. The genus is characterized by its unique genome structure and replication mechanism, which distinguishes it from other insect-infecting viruses.

Structure

Bidensoviruses are non-enveloped viruses with icosahedral symmetry. The virions are relatively small, with a diameter of approximately 30 nm. The genome of Bidensovirus is composed of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), which is divided into two segments. This bipartite genome is a distinctive feature of the genus.

Genome

The genome of Bidensovirus is unique among ssDNA viruses due to its bipartite nature. It consists of two separate DNA molecules, each encoding different sets of proteins necessary for the virus's replication and assembly. The genome segments are referred to as VD1 and VD2. VD1 encodes the structural proteins, while VD2 encodes the non-structural proteins involved in replication.

Replication

Bidensovirus replication occurs in the nucleus of the host cell. The virus enters the host cell and releases its genome into the nucleus, where it utilizes the host's replication machinery to synthesize complementary DNA strands. The replication process involves the formation of a double-stranded DNA intermediate, which serves as a template for the production of new viral genomes.

Pathogenesis

Bidensovirus primarily infects the silkworm, Bombyx mori, causing a disease known as flacherie. Infected larvae exhibit symptoms such as reduced growth, lethargy, and eventually death. The virus is transmitted horizontally through contaminated food and vertically from infected parents to offspring.

Research and Applications

Research on Bidensovirus has provided insights into the molecular biology of ssDNA viruses and their interactions with insect hosts. Understanding the virus's life cycle and pathogenesis can aid in developing strategies to control infections in sericulture, thereby protecting the silk industry.

Also see

• Bombyx mori
• Silkworm diseases
• Insect virology
• Single-stranded DNA viruses