Deltacoronavirus (genus)

Deltacoronavirus is a genus of viruses in the Coronaviridae family, which is part of the Nidovirales order. This genus includes viruses that have been identified in both birds and mammals, including humans. Deltacoronaviruses are enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses. Their discovery has expanded the understanding of the diversity and evolution of coronaviruses, which also include other well-known genera such as Alphacoronavirus, Betacoronavirus, and Gammacoronavirus.

Taxonomy

Deltacoronaviruses belong to the family Coronaviridae, which is divided into two subfamilies: Orthocoronavirinae and Letovirinae. The Orthocoronavirinae subfamily includes four genera: Alpha-, Beta-, Gamma-, and Deltacoronavirus. The classification of coronaviruses into these genera is based on their genetic and serological relationships.

Structure

The structure of deltacoronaviruses is characterized by the club-like spikes on their surface, which is a hallmark of the Coronaviridae family. These spikes are used by the virus to attach to and enter host cells. The genome of deltacoronaviruses is a single strand of positive-sense RNA, which means it can be directly translated into viral proteins by the host cell's machinery.

Replication

Deltacoronavirus replication involves several steps. After attachment and entry into the host cell, the virus releases its RNA genome into the cytoplasm. The host's ribosomes translate the viral RNA into two large polyproteins, which are then cleaved into smaller functional proteins. Among these proteins is the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, which replicates the viral RNA. New viral particles are assembled in the cytoplasm and then released from the cell to infect new cells.

Pathogenicity

Deltacoronaviruses have been associated with a variety of diseases in animals. In birds, they can cause gastrointestinal diseases, while in mammals, including pigs and potentially humans, they have been linked to both respiratory and enteric infections. The pathogenicity of deltacoronaviruses in humans is not well understood, but their ability to cross species barriers poses a potential risk for emerging infectious diseases.

History

The first deltacoronavirus was identified in the early 21st century, highlighting the ongoing discovery of new viruses and the importance of surveillance in understanding viral diversity and the potential for zoonotic transmission. Since then, research has focused on understanding their biology, epidemiology, and potential threat to human health.

See Also

• Coronavirus diseases
• Viral zoonosis
• Epidemiology of viral diseases