Bidnaviridae

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Bidnaviridae[edit | edit source]

Bidnaviridae is a family of single-stranded DNA viruses that infects invertebrates. This family is characterized by having a linear, non-segmented genome and is known for its unique replication mechanism. The family name is derived from "bi" meaning two, "dna" for DNA, and "viridae" indicating a viral family.

Taxonomy[edit | edit source]

The family Bidnaviridae is currently composed of a single genus:

The genus Bidensovirus includes viruses that primarily infect insect hosts, particularly those within the order Lepidoptera.

Genome[edit | edit source]

The genome of Bidnaviridae viruses is composed of linear, single-stranded DNA. The genome size typically ranges from 6 to 8 kilobases. Unlike many other DNA viruses, Bidnaviridae viruses do not have a circular genome, which is a distinctive feature of this family.

Replication[edit | edit source]

Bidnaviridae viruses replicate within the nucleus of the host cell. The replication process involves the synthesis of a complementary DNA strand to form a double-stranded DNA intermediate. This intermediate serves as a template for the transcription of viral mRNA and the synthesis of new viral genomes.

Host Range[edit | edit source]

The primary hosts for Bidnaviridae viruses are insects, with a particular affinity for species within the order Lepidoptera. These viruses can have significant impacts on their host populations, sometimes being used as biological control agents against pest species.

Pathogenesis[edit | edit source]

Infection by Bidnaviridae viruses can lead to various pathological effects in the host, including developmental abnormalities and mortality. The specific symptoms and severity of infection can vary depending on the host species and the particular virus strain.

Research and Applications[edit | edit source]

Research into Bidnaviridae viruses is ongoing, with interests in their potential use in biological control of pest insects. Understanding the molecular biology and life cycle of these viruses can also provide insights into the evolution of single-stranded DNA viruses.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD