VIRION
None reported. No true capsid. The dsRNA genome is encapsulated along with the viral replicase enzyme.
GENOME
Linear dsRNA genome of about 14 kb to 17.6 kb. A site specific break (nick) is found in the coding strand about 1 to 2 kb from the 5' terminus.
GENE EXPRESSION
The genome encodes for one ORF potentially cleaved in several polypeptides.
REPLICATION
CYTOPLASMIC
- Virus genome is transmitted horizontally through mating or vertically from mother to daughter cells.
- Transcription-translation of genomic RNA produces viral RdRp and possibly other proteins.
- Replication occurs in cytoplasmic vesicles. Genomic (+)RNA is copied into its complementary anti-genomic RNA thereby forming new dsRNA genomes.