Journal
VIRUS GENES
Volume 21, Issue 1-2, Pages 111-133Publisher
SPRINGER
DOI: 10.1023/A:1008140615106
Keywords
poxviruses; cellular genes; pathogenicity; host; immunemodulation; cell differentiation
Categories
Ask authors/readers for more resources
Over the course of time poxviruses have acquired or captured numerous homologues of cellular genes and incorporated them into their large DNA genomes. With more poxvirus genome sequencing data becoming available, the number of newly discovered poxviral cellular homologues is constantly increasing. A common feature of these genes is that they are nonessential for virus replication in vitro and they confer selective advantages in dealing with host cell differentiation and immune defense mechanisms in vivo. Poxviral cellular homologues are reviewed in this synopsis considering the specific viral habitats of different poxviruses and the immune defence capabilities of their respective hosts. Possible mechanisms of cellular gene acquisition by poxviruses as suggested by the analysis of mobile genetic elements in large DNA viruses are discussed. The investigation of poxvirus homologues of cellular genes is essential for our understanding of the mechanisms that regulate virus/host interactions on the cellular level and the host response against infection.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available