Perhabdovirus

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colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: rgb(250,250,190)" | Perhabdovirus
colspan=2 style="min-width:15em; text-align: center; background-color: rgb(250,250,190)" | Virus classification

Perhabdovirus is a genus of viruses in the family Rhabdoviridae. Members of this genus are known to infect a variety of hosts, including fish and amphibians. The genus is characterized by its bullet-shaped virions and its single-stranded, negative-sense RNA genome.

Structure

Perhabdoviruses are enveloped viruses with a distinctive bullet-shaped morphology. The virion is typically about 180 nm in length and 75 nm in diameter. The viral envelope is derived from the host cell membrane and contains glycoproteins that are essential for viral entry into host cells.

Genome

The genome of perhabdoviruses is a single-stranded, negative-sense RNA molecule, approximately 11-12 kilobases in length. The genome encodes five major proteins: the nucleoprotein (N), phosphoprotein (P), matrix protein (M), glycoprotein (G), and the large protein (L), which is the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase.

Replication Cycle

The replication cycle of perhabdoviruses begins with the attachment of the viral glycoprotein to receptors on the host cell surface, followed by endocytosis of the virus. Once inside the host cell, the viral RNA is released into the cytoplasm, where it is transcribed and replicated by the viral RNA polymerase. New virions are assembled in the cytoplasm and bud from the host cell, acquiring their envelope in the process.

Pathogenesis

Perhabdoviruses are known to cause disease in their hosts, with symptoms varying depending on the specific virus and host species. In fish, infections can lead to hemorrhagic septicemia, while in amphibians, they may cause skin lesions and systemic infections. The pathogenic mechanisms involve both direct viral cytopathic effects and the host immune response.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of perhabdovirus infections typically involves the detection of viral RNA using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or the isolation of the virus in cell culture. Serological assays can also be used to detect antibodies against the virus in infected hosts.

Prevention and Control

Preventive measures for perhabdovirus infections include biosecurity practices to prevent the introduction of the virus into aquaculture facilities, vaccination of susceptible species, and monitoring of wild populations for signs of infection.

Research

Ongoing research on perhabdoviruses focuses on understanding their molecular biology, host interactions, and the development of effective vaccines and antiviral therapies. Studies are also exploring the ecological impact of these viruses on wild fish and amphibian populations.

Also see

• Rhabdoviridae
• Viral replication
• RNA virus
• Viral pathogenesis