Rubella virus

Rubella virus is a virus that causes rubella, also known as German measles or three-day measles. This virus is the only member of the genus Rubivirus and belongs to the family Matonaviridae.

Structure and genome

The Rubella virus is an enveloped virus with a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA genome. The genome is approximately 10,000 nucleotides long and encodes two non-structural proteins and three structural proteins. The structural proteins include the capsid protein and two envelope glycoproteins, E1 and E2.

Life cycle

The Rubella virus enters the host cell by receptor-mediated endocytosis. After entry, the virus uncoats and releases its RNA genome into the cytoplasm. The RNA is then translated into a polyprotein, which is cleaved into individual proteins by viral proteases. The virus replicates its RNA genome and assembles new virus particles, which are released from the cell by budding.

Pathogenesis and immunity

Rubella virus primarily infects the respiratory system and spreads through the bloodstream to various organs. The virus can cross the placenta and infect the fetus, causing congenital rubella syndrome in pregnant women.

Immunity to Rubella virus is primarily mediated by antibodies, which can prevent reinfection. Vaccination with the MMR vaccine provides long-lasting immunity.

Epidemiology

Rubella virus is a human-specific pathogen and is transmitted through respiratory droplets. Outbreaks of rubella typically occur in the late winter and early spring.