Hepadnaviridae

Hepadnaviridae is a family of viruses. Humans, apes, and birds serve as natural hosts. There are currently seven species in this family, divided among two genera. Diseases associated with this family include: hepatitis B, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Taxonomy

The family Hepadnaviridae is divided into two genera:

• Genus: Orthohepadnavirus
• Genus: Avihepadnavirus

Structure

Viruses in Hepadnaviridae are enveloped, with spherical geometries. The diameter is around 42 nm. Genomes are circular, around 3.2kb in length.

Life Cycle

Viral replication is cytoplasmic. Entry into the host cell is achieved by attachment of the viral proteins to host receptors, which mediates endocytosis. Replication follows the DNA-mediated DNA replication model. DNA-templated transcription is the method of transcription. The virus exits the host cell by budding, and tubule-guided viral movement. Humans, apes, and birds serve as the natural host. Transmission routes are sexual, blood, and contact.

Clinical

The most well-known member of this family is the Hepatitis B virus, which is a major cause of viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma.

See also

• Viral replication
• Hepatitis B virus
• Cirrhosis
• Hepatocellular carcinoma

References

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External links

• Viralzone: Hepadnaviridae
• ICTV

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