Human Astrovirus

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Classification

Higher Order Taxonomy

Virus

Realm: Riboviria

Kingdom: Orthornavirae

Phylum: Pisuviricota

Class: Stelpaviricetes

Order: Stellavirales

Family: Astroviridae

Genus: Mamastrovirus

Species

Human Astrovirus 1-8

Description and Significance

Human Astrovirus (HAstV) is a species of the genera Mamastrovirus, which are a group of enteric viruses known to be capable of causing mild symptomatic gastrointestinal infection. HAstV was first discovered as a causative agent for gastrointestinal infection among children under the age of 2. Among other viruses, HAstV is notable for its resilience outside of a host environment. It has been determined that HAstV is resistant to inactivation by alcohols (including the common antiseptic ethanol), bleach, detergents, and to mild UV or heat treatments. Astroviruses are known to survive for up to 90 days in tap water, and have been associated with 3-8% of child diarrhea cases, as such making them fairly prevalent within the human biosphere.

Genome Structure

Describe the size and content of the genome. How many chromosomes? Circular or linear? Other interesting features? What is known about its sequence?

Cell Structure, Metabolism and Life Cycle

Interesting features of cell structure; how it gains energy; what important molecules it produces.

Ecology and Pathogenesis

Habitat; symbiosis; biogeochemical significance; contributions to environment.
If relevant, how does this organism cause disease? Human, animal, plant hosts? Virulence factors, as well as patient symptoms.

References

[Sample reference] Takai, K., Sugai, A., Itoh, T., and Horikoshi, K. "Palaeococcus ferrophilus gen. nov., sp. nov., a barophilic, hyperthermophilic archaeon from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent chimney". International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology. 2000. Volume 50. p. 489-500.

Author

Page authored by _____, student of Prof. Jay Lennon at IndianaUniversity.