Guttaviridae
Guttaviridae
Classification
Domain: Viruses; Realm: Varidnaviria; Kingdom: Bamfordvirae; Phylum: Nucleocytoviricota; Class: Nucleocytoviricetes; Order: Currently, there is not an assigned order for Guttaviridae; Family: Guttaviridae
Species: Sulfolobus newzealandicus droplet-shaped virus (SNDV)
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NCBI: [1]
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Genus species
Description and Significance
Guttaviridae is a family of enveloped viruses that infect hyperthermophilic archaea. Guttaviridae thrive in extremely hot environments like volcanic hot springs, making them significant for studying the limits of life and the evolution of viruses in extreme conditions. Their unique genetic makeup and structural features also contribute to our understanding of viral diversity across different domains of life.
Genome Structure
The genome of Guttaviridae consists of a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) molecule that is circular in structure. It encodes a small number of genes, primarily those required for replication, capsid formation, and host interaction, relying heavily on the host's cellular machinery for its lifecycle.
Cell Structure, Metabolism and Life Cycle
Cell structure -Spindle-shaped virions with short tail-like projections at one end, giving them a distinctive "guttate" (droplet-like) appearance Protein capsid surrounding double-stranded DNA
Metabolism-They cannot perform metabolic activity on their own, so they use a host cell machinery to replicate DNA, synthesize proteins, and produce new viral particles Infect Sulfolobus archaea, which are found in extremely hot and acidic environments, such as hydrothermal vents and hot springs
Life cycle-Attaches to the surface of a Sulfolobus cell and injects its genetic material into the host Viral DNA is replicated using the host’s enzymes, and viral proteins are synthesized. Newly formed viral particles are assembled within the host cell. Completed virions are released from the host cell, sometimes lysing the cell in the process, to infect other nearby Sulfolobus cells
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
Author
Page authored by _____, _____, _____, & _____, students of Prof. Bradley Tolar at UNC Wilmington.
