[W7] Picornaviruses Flashcards
(60 cards)
What is the genome type of Picornaviridae?
Single-stranded positive-sense RNA
This type of RNA can be directly translated into proteins by the host cell.
Are picornaviruses enveloped?
No, they are non-enveloped
Non-enveloped viruses are generally more resistant to environmental conditions.
What is the shape and symmetry of picornavirus capsids?
Icosahedral symmetry
This geometric shape is common in many viruses and provides structural stability.
What is the size range of picornaviruses?
About 22–30 nm in diameter
This small size allows them to infect host cells easily.
Where do picornaviruses replicate in the cell?
In the cytoplasm
This is where the viral RNA can be translated and replicated.
What is the role of VPg in picornavirus RNA?
It’s a viral protein linked to the 5’ end of the genome, involved in replication
VPg helps initiate the synthesis of viral RNA.
What does the polyprotein of picornaviruses get processed into?
Structural proteins (VP1–VP4) and non-structural proteins for replication
This processing is crucial for the formation of viral components.
What does the picornavirus genome encode?
A single large polyprotein
This polyprotein is subsequently cleaved into functional proteins.
How is the polyprotein cleaved?
By viral proteases (e.g., 2A, 3C)
These proteases are essential for the maturation of the virus.
What is the role of the IRES in picornaviruses?
It enables cap-independent translation of the viral RNA
This allows the virus to hijack the host’s translational machinery effectively.
What does 3Dpol do in the viral life cycle?
It is the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase responsible for genome replication
This enzyme synthesizes new viral RNA genomes.
Name four major genera in the Picornaviridae family.
Enterovirus, Rhinovirus, Hepatovirus, Aphthovirus
Each genus is associated with different diseases.
Which virus causes poliomyelitis?
Poliovirus (a type of Enterovirus)
Poliovirus is notorious for its impact on motor neuron function.
What virus is the most common cause of the common cold?
Rhinovirus
Rhinoviruses thrive in the upper respiratory tract.
Which picornavirus causes hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A virus (HAV)
HAV is transmitted via the fecal-oral route.
Which picornavirus causes foot-and-mouth disease in livestock?
Aphthovirus
This virus affects cloven-hoofed animals and has significant agricultural implications.
How are enteroviruses typically transmitted?
Fecal-oral route
This route is common for many gastrointestinal viruses.
What is the primary transmission route for rhinoviruses?
Respiratory droplets
This facilitates rapid spread in crowded environments.
Which cells do enteroviruses initially infect?
Mucosal and lymphoid tissues of the oropharynx and gut
Initial infection sites are critical for viral dissemination.
How does poliovirus reach the CNS?
Through viremia and possible retrograde axonal transport
This ability to invade the nervous system is key to its pathogenicity.
What diagnostic method is commonly used for picornavirus RNA detection?
RT-PCR
This technique amplifies viral RNA for detection.
What type of cell culture may be used to isolate poliovirus?
HeLa or Vero cells
These cell lines are permissive for poliovirus replication.
What technique confirms serotype in enterovirus infections?
Neutralization assay
This assay identifies specific viral strains based on antibody interactions.
What are the two types of polio vaccines?
Inactivated (IPV) and oral live-attenuated (OPV) vaccines
Both vaccines play crucial roles in polio eradication efforts.