Simian virus 40

Simian virus 40, abbreviated as SV40, is a polyomavirus that is found in both monkeys and humans. Like other polyomaviruses, SV40 is a DNA virus that has been found to cause tumors and cancer.

History

SV40 was first identified in 1960. It was discovered in rhesus monkey kidney cells, which were being used to produce polio vaccine. The virus was unintentionally introduced into the human population through contaminated polio vaccines.

Structure

SV40 is a small, non-enveloped virus. It has a circular, double-stranded DNA genome. The genome is enclosed in a protein capsid.

Replication

SV40 replicates in the nucleus of the host cell. The virus enters the cell through receptor-mediated endocytosis. Once inside the cell, the virus uncoats and the DNA is transported to the nucleus. The virus then uses the host's machinery to replicate its DNA and produce new virus particles.

Pathogenesis

SV40 has been found to cause tumors in rodents. It has also been associated with certain types of human cancers, although a causal relationship has not been definitively established. The virus is able to transform normal cells into cancerous cells by interfering with their normal growth control mechanisms.

Epidemiology

SV40 is widespread in the human population. It is estimated that millions of people were exposed to the virus through contaminated polio vaccines. However, the virus does not appear to cause disease in healthy individuals. It is thought that the virus may be able to cause disease in individuals with weakened immune systems.

See also

• Polyomavirus
• Cancer
• Virus

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