DNA virus

DNA virus is a type of virus that uses DNA as its genetic material and replicates using a DNA-dependent DNA polymerase. The group is divided into families depending on their genome (double-stranded DNA, single-stranded DNA, etc.) and the method of replication.

Overview

DNA viruses belong to either Group I or Group II of the Baltimore classification system for viruses. They include both double-stranded (ds) DNA viruses (e.g., Herpesviridae) and single-stranded (ss) DNA viruses (e.g., Parvoviridae).

Replication

The replication cycle of DNA viruses is complex and involves several stages. These include attachment, penetration, uncoating, replication, assembly, and release.

Attachment and Penetration

The virus attaches to the host cell using specific receptors on the surface. Following attachment, the virus penetrates the cell membrane and enters the cell.

Uncoating

Once inside the cell, the viral capsid is removed (uncoating), exposing the viral DNA to the cellular environment.

Replication

The viral DNA then enters the nucleus where it is replicated by the host's DNA polymerase.

Assembly and Release

Newly synthesized viral proteins are assembled into virions in the cytoplasm. The virions are then released from the cell, either by causing the cell to burst (lysis) or by budding off from the cell membrane.

Families of DNA Viruses

There are several families of DNA viruses that infect humans. These include:

• Adenoviridae
• Herpesviridae
• Papillomaviridae
• Polyomaviridae
• Poxviridae

Each of these families includes multiple species that cause various diseases in humans.

Diseases Caused by DNA Viruses

DNA viruses are responsible for a wide range of diseases in humans. These include:

• Common cold (Adenoviridae)
• Herpes (Herpesviridae)
• Warts (Papillomaviridae)
• Chickenpox and Shingles (Varicella-zoster virus, a species of Herpesviridae)
• Smallpox (Poxviridae)

See Also

• RNA virus
• Virus classification
• Viral replication

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