A life LINE for large viruses

Review Microbiology

The logic of virus evolution

Eugene Koonin et al.

Summary: Viruses are parasites that rely on host cells, but they have their own genomes and independent evolutionary trajectories. Virus genes responsible for genome replication descended from primordial replicators, while most other genes were acquired from hosts. Host gene capture occurs through two main routes: recruitment of genes that benefit virus reproduction and repurposing of host proteins for unique virus functions. This leads to varying levels of similarity between virus and host homologs.

CELL HOST & MICROBE (2022)

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Article Biology

Poxviruses capture host genes by LINE-1 retrotransposition

Sarah M. Fixsen et al.

Summary: Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is a major source of genetic variation, with many viruses acquiring crucial genes through gene transfer from hosts. This study reveals the central role of Long Interspersed Nuclear Element-1 retrotransposition in HGT to virus genomes, allowing rapid duplication of captured host genes to enhance virus adaptation.

ELIFE (2022)

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Article Biology

LINE-1 retrotransposons facilitate horizontal gene transfer into poxviruses

M. Julhasur Rahman et al.

Summary: This study developed a model to understand the mechanisms of gene transfer in vaccinia virus. The findings indicate that gene capture events are mediated by LINE-1 retrotransposition and highlight the role of host retrotransposons as major drivers for virus evolution.

ELIFE (2022)

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Article Microbiology

Ancient Gene Capture and Recent Gene Loss Shape the Evolution of Orthopoxvirus-Host Interaction Genes

Tatiana G. Senkevich et al.

Summary: The survival of viruses relies on their ability to resist host defenses and certain genes play a crucial role in this process. Poxviruses, like Orthopoxviruses (ORPV), have a significant number of genes dedicated to counteracting host immunity. Through evolution, ORPV acquired accessory genes in three major waves, leading to gene duplication and the formation of gene families. Interestingly, most accessory genes were lost during ORPV evolution, suggesting a variety of functional interactions within this virus family.

MBIO (2021)

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Article Virology