Mononiviridae

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Mononiviridae
Kingdom:	Orthornavirae
Phylum:	Negarnaviricota
Class:	Monjiviricetes
Order:	Mononegavirales
Family:	'Mononiviridae'

Mononiviridae is a family of negative-sense single-stranded RNA viruses within the order Mononegavirales. This family is characterized by its unique genomic and structural features, which distinguish it from other families within the same order. The viruses in this family are known to infect a variety of hosts, including plants, animals, and humans, and are of significant interest due to their impact on health and agriculture.

Structure

Viruses in the Mononiviridae family are enveloped, with a helical nucleocapsid. The viral envelope is derived from the host cell membrane and contains viral glycoproteins that are essential for host cell entry. The genome is a single molecule of negative-sense RNA, typically ranging from 10 to 15 kilobases in length. This RNA is encapsidated by the nucleoprotein, forming a ribonucleoprotein complex that is associated with the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase.

Genome

The genome of Mononiviridae viruses is organized in a linear fashion and encodes several proteins, including the nucleoprotein (N), phosphoprotein (P), matrix protein (M), glycoprotein (G), and the large polymerase protein (L). The order and function of these genes are conserved among members of the family, although there may be variations in the number and function of accessory proteins.

Replication Cycle

The replication cycle of Mononiviridae viruses begins with the attachment of the viral glycoproteins to specific receptors on the host cell surface, followed by fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane. The ribonucleoprotein complex is then released into the cytoplasm, where transcription and replication occur. The viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase transcribes the negative-sense RNA genome into positive-sense mRNA, which is translated into viral proteins by the host cell machinery. Replication of the genome involves the synthesis of a complementary positive-sense RNA, which serves as a template for the production of new negative-sense RNA genomes. Assembly of new virions occurs in the cytoplasm, and mature virions are released from the host cell by budding.

Pathogenesis

Members of the Mononiviridae family are responsible for a range of diseases in their respective hosts. In humans, these viruses can cause respiratory illnesses, hemorrhagic fevers, and other systemic infections. In plants, they may lead to wilting, stunted growth, and reduced crop yields. The pathogenicity of these viruses is often linked to their ability to evade the host immune response and cause cell damage.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of infections caused by Mononiviridae viruses typically involves molecular techniques such as reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect viral RNA. Serological assays may also be used to identify specific antibodies against the virus. Treatment options are limited and primarily supportive, although antiviral drugs targeting the viral polymerase or entry process are under investigation.

Prevention

Preventive measures include vaccination, where available, and the implementation of biosecurity practices to limit the spread of the virus. In agricultural settings, controlling the vectors that transmit plant viruses is crucial.

Also see

• Mononegavirales
• Negative-sense single-stranded RNA virus
• Viral replication
• Viral pathogenesis