9.4 Retroviruses and other significant RNA viruses
6 min read•august 1, 2024
Retroviruses and other RNA viruses are key players in human health. These pathogens, including and , have unique life cycles and can cause chronic infections. They've had major impacts on global health, leading to pandemics and long-term public health challenges.
RNA viruses like , Ebola, and coronaviruses can cause outbreaks and pandemics. Understanding their biology, transmission, and prevention is crucial for public health. Vaccines, antivirals, and public health measures are important tools in controlling these infections and mitigating their impacts.
Retrovirus Replication and Pathogenesis
Retroviral Life Cycle and Unique Features
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Top images from around the web for Retroviral Life Cycle and Unique Features
Retroviruses: Double-Stranded RNA Viruses | Boundless Microbiology View original
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6.2 – The Viral Life Cycle – Microbiology 201 View original
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Frontiers | Retroviral RNA Dimerization: From Structure to Functions View original
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Retroviruses: Double-Stranded RNA Viruses | Boundless Microbiology View original
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6.2 – The Viral Life Cycle – Microbiology 201 View original
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Retroviruses possess reverse transcriptase enzyme converts RNA genome into DNA for integration into host cell's genome
Retroviral life cycle includes:
Attachment to host cell receptors
Entry into the cell
of viral RNA to DNA
Integration of viral DNA into host genome
Transcription and translation of viral genes
Assembly of new viral particles
Budding and release of mature virions
Rapid mutation rates allow retroviruses to evade host immune responses
Viral DNA integration can lead to insertional mutagenesis activating oncogenes or disrupting tumor suppressor genes
HIV Pathogenesis and Immune Evasion
HIV primarily targets CD4+ T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells
Progressive immune system deterioration increases susceptibility to opportunistic infections (pneumocystis pneumonia, toxoplasmosis)
HIV employs various immune evasion mechanisms:
Latency in memory T cells
Downregulation of host cell surface proteins (MHC class I molecules)
Rapid mutation of viral envelope proteins
Prolonged asymptomatic period followed by gradual disease progression characterizes HIV infection
HTLV Infection and Associated Diseases
HTLV (Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus) primarily infects CD4+ T cells