Preplasmiviricota

Preplasmiviricota is a phylum of viruses in the kingdom Orthornavirae. This phylum includes viruses that infect bacteria and archaea, as well as some that infect eukaryotic organisms.

Taxonomy

The Preplasmiviricota is divided into two classes: Desulfuroviricetes and Portogloboviricetes. These classes are further divided into orders, families, and genera. The taxonomy of this phylum is still under review by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV).

Characteristics

Viruses in the Preplasmiviricota phylum are characterized by their icosahedral symmetry and double-stranded DNA genomes. They are also known for their unique replication cycle, which involves the formation of a plasmid-like intermediate.

Replication Cycle

The replication cycle of Preplasmiviricota viruses begins with the attachment of the virus to the host cell. The virus then injects its DNA into the host cell, where it is incorporated into the host's genome. The viral DNA is then transcribed and translated by the host's machinery, producing new viral proteins and DNA. The new viruses are assembled inside the host cell and then released to infect other cells.

Pathogenicity

While some viruses in the Preplasmiviricota phylum are known to cause disease in their hosts, others are considered symbiotic, providing benefits to their hosts. The pathogenicity of these viruses can vary widely, depending on the specific virus and host species.

Research

Research into the Preplasmiviricota phylum is ongoing, with scientists seeking to understand more about these viruses' biology, ecology, and evolution. This research could have important implications for fields such as microbiology, virology, and biotechnology.

File:Preplasmiviricota virus.jpg

A representation of a Preplasmiviricota virus

See Also

• Virus classification
• Virology
• Microbiology