Lipothrixviridae

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Lipothrixviridae is a family of viruses in the order Ligamenvirales. This family is known to infect archaea, specifically those within the phylum Crenarchaeota. Members of this family are characterized by their unique filamentous virion structure and their ability to thrive in extreme environments, such as high temperatures and acidic conditions.

Taxonomy

The family Lipothrixviridae is divided into several genera, including:

• Alphalipothrixvirus
• Betalipothrixvirus
• Gammalipothrixvirus
• Deltalipothrixvirus

Each genus contains multiple species that share common structural and genetic features.

Structure

Virions of Lipothrixviridae are enveloped and have a filamentous shape. The virion is typically around 20-30 nm in diameter and can be up to 2,000 nm in length. The envelope is derived from the host cell membrane and contains viral glycoproteins that are essential for host recognition and entry.

Genome

The genome of Lipothrixviridae viruses is linear, double-stranded DNA and ranges from 14 to 40 kilobases in length. The genome encodes various proteins, including those involved in replication, transcription, and virion assembly.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Lipothrixviridae involves several key steps: 1. **Attachment and Entry**: The virus attaches to the host cell surface via specific receptors and enters the cell through membrane fusion. 2. **Replication and Transcription**: Once inside, the viral DNA is transported to the host cell's cytoplasm, where it is replicated and transcribed. 3. **Assembly and Release**: New virions are assembled in the cytoplasm and are eventually released from the host cell, often through a process that does not immediately lyse the cell.

Host Interaction

Lipothrixviridae viruses are known to infect hyperthermophilic and acidophilic archaea within the phylum Crenarchaeota. These archaea are typically found in extreme environments such as hot springs and hydrothermal vents.

Significance

The study of Lipothrixviridae provides insights into the diversity and evolution of viruses that infect archaea. Understanding these viruses also contributes to our knowledge of viral adaptation to extreme environments and the mechanisms of virus-host interactions in archaea.

See Also

• Virus
• Archaea
• Crenarchaeota
• Ligamenvirales