Inoviridae

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Inoviridae
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Family:	Inoviridae

Inoviridae is a family of viruses that infects bacteria, specifically Gram-negative bacteria. These viruses are characterized by their filamentous shape and single-stranded DNA genome. Members of the Inoviridae family are known for their ability to cause chronic infections without killing their host cells, a process that is distinct from the lytic cycle seen in many other bacteriophages.

Structure

Inoviridae virions are non-enveloped and filamentous, typically measuring about 6-10 nm in diameter and up to 2000 nm in length. The capsid is composed of a helical array of protein subunits that encase the viral DNA. The simplicity of their structure allows them to be highly flexible, which is a key feature for their mode of infection and replication.

Genome

The genome of Inoviridae is a circular single-stranded DNA molecule, usually ranging from 5 to 10 kilobases in length. The genome encodes a small number of proteins, typically including a major coat protein, a minor coat protein, and proteins involved in DNA replication and host interaction.

Life Cycle

Inoviridae viruses enter their host cells through the bacterial pilus, a hair-like appendage on the surface of the bacterium. Once inside, the viral DNA is converted into a double-stranded form by host enzymes. This DNA serves as a template for transcription and replication. Unlike lytic phages, Inoviridae do not lyse their host cells; instead, they are extruded from the host cell membrane in a process that allows the host cell to continue growing and dividing.

Pathogenesis

Inoviridae are not pathogenic to humans but can influence the pathogenicity of their bacterial hosts. For example, they can alter the surface properties of bacteria, affecting their ability to form biofilms or evade the host immune system. This can have implications for bacterial virulence and antibiotic resistance.

Applications

Inoviridae have been studied for their potential applications in nanotechnology and biotechnology. Their filamentous structure and ability to display peptides on their surface make them useful as scaffolds for the development of vaccines and diagnostic tools.

Also see

• Bacteriophage
• Single-stranded DNA viruses
• Virus replication
• Biofilm