Molecular biology
VIRION
Non-enveloped, round, icosahedral symmetry (T=1), about 18-19 nm in diameter.
GENOME
6 to 8 circular (+)ssDNA about 1kb in size. Each ssDNA have a common stem-loop region and are encapsidated in a separate particle.
In addition to genomic DNA, satellite-lake DNA are commonly found, usually encoding for Rep proteins. These satellite-rep proteins are only able to initiate replication of their genomic DNA, unlike genomic rep which promotes replication of all 6-8 viral genomic ssDNAs.
GENE EXPRESSION
Each genome ssDNA are monocistronic. In rare cases a gene encodes for two overlapping ORF.
REPLICATION
NUCLEAR
- Virus penetrates into the host cell.
- Uncoating, and release of the viral genomic ssDNA into the nucleus.
- The ssDNA is converted into dsDNA with the participation of cellular factors.
- bidirectional transcription from the IR promoter produces viral mRNAs and translation of viral proteins.
- Replication is initiated by cleavage of the(+)strand by REP, and occurs by rolling circle producing ssDNA genomes
- These newly synthesized ssDNA can either
a) be converted to dsDNA and serve as a template for transcription/replication
b) be encapsidated by CP and form virions that will be released in the extracellular space.