Sapovirus

Sapovirus is a genus of viruses in the family Caliciviridae. They are non-enveloped, with icosahedral geometries, and T=3 symmetry. The name of the genus is derived from Sapporo virus, which is the prototype strain of the genus. Sapoviruses are known to cause gastroenteritis in humans and animals.

Structure

Sapoviruses are non-enveloped, with icosahedral and round geometries, and T=3 symmetry. The diameter is around 35-39nm. Genomes are linear and non-segmented, around 7.7kb in length.

Life Cycle

Viral replication is cytoplasmic. Entry into the host cell is achieved by attachment of the virus to host receptors, which mediates endocytosis. Replication follows the positive stranded RNA virus replication model. Positive stranded RNA virus transcription is the method of transcription. Translation takes place by leaky scanning, and RNA termination-reinitiation. The virus exits the host cell by lysis, and viroporins. Humans and pigs serve as the natural host.

Clinical Features

Sapovirus infection often causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Symptoms can include diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. The illness usually lasts for a few days, but can be serious in people with underlying health conditions.

Prevention and Control

There is currently no vaccine available for Sapovirus. Prevention relies on good personal hygiene, such as regular hand washing, especially after using the toilet and before eating. Control of Sapovirus outbreaks can be challenging, as the virus is resistant to many common disinfectants.

See Also

• Caliciviridae
• Gastroenteritis
• Virus

References

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