Rudiviridae

Rudiviridae is a family of viruses that infects archaea, specifically those within the phylum Crenarchaeota. This family is characterized by its unique filamentous virions and its ability to thrive in extreme environments, such as hot springs and hydrothermal vents.

Structure

Rudiviridae virions are non-enveloped, rod-shaped particles approximately 23 nm in diameter and 800-900 nm in length. The virion is composed of a helical nucleoprotein complex, with the viral DNA tightly associated with the protein coat. The ends of the virion are capped with terminal proteins that are involved in the initiation of infection.

Genome

The genome of Rudiviridae is a linear double-stranded DNA molecule, typically around 15.5 kilobases in length. The genome encodes for approximately 35 proteins, including those necessary for replication, transcription, and virion assembly. Notably, the genome is terminally redundant and contains inverted terminal repeats, which are important for the replication process.

Replication Cycle

Rudiviridae viruses replicate within the cytoplasm of their archaeal hosts. The replication cycle begins with the attachment of the virion to the host cell surface, followed by the injection of the viral DNA into the host. The viral genome is then transcribed and replicated using host machinery, with the production of viral proteins and assembly of new virions occurring in the cytoplasm. The newly formed virions are released from the host cell through a lysis mechanism, which is often facilitated by viral proteins that degrade the host cell wall.

Host Range

Members of the Rudiviridae family specifically infect hyperthermophilic archaea within the order Sulfolobales. These hosts are typically found in acidic hot springs and other geothermal environments, where they thrive at temperatures around 80°C and pH levels of 2-3.

Significance

The study of Rudiviridae provides insights into the evolution of viruses and their adaptation to extreme environments. These viruses are also of interest for their unique structural properties and potential applications in nanotechnology and biotechnology.

Also see

• Archaea
• Crenarchaeota
• Virus classification
• Hyperthermophile
• Ligamenvirales

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