Entomopoxvirinae

Entomopoxvirinae is a subfamily of the Poxviridae family of viruses. This subfamily is known to infect insects, and is characterized by its unique morphology and the diseases it causes in its hosts.

Taxonomy

The subfamily Entomopoxvirinae is divided into three genera:

• Alphaentomopoxvirus
• Betaentomopoxvirus
• Gammaentomopoxvirus

Each of these genera contains several species of viruses, all of which infect insects.

Structure

Viruses in the Entomopoxvirinae subfamily are enveloped, with brick-shaped geometries. The size of these viruses typically ranges from 250-300 nm in length and 200-250 nm in width. The virion is composed of a core, an internal membrane, lateral bodies, and an outer envelope.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Entomopoxvirinae viruses involves replication in the cytoplasm of the host cell. The virus enters the host cell by fusion with the plasma membrane, and the viral DNA is then released into the cytoplasm. The viral DNA is transcribed and translated, leading to the production of early proteins. The viral DNA is then replicated, and late proteins are produced. The new virions are assembled in the cytoplasm, and are then released from the host cell by budding.

Pathogenesis

Infections with Entomopoxvirinae viruses can cause significant disease in insects. The symptoms of infection can vary depending on the species of virus and the host insect, but can include lethargy, paralysis, and death. These viruses can have significant impacts on insect populations, and can therefore have indirect effects on ecosystems and agriculture.

See Also

• Poxviridae
• Virus
• Insect

References

Entomopoxvirinae Resources
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