Rhabdovirus

Rhabdovirus is a genus of viruses in the order Mononegavirales, in the family Rhabdoviridae. Organisms affected by this virus include mammals (including humans), birds, reptiles, fish, and insects.

Structure

Rhabdoviruses are enveloped, with bullet-shaped geometries. These viruses are about 75 nm wide and 180 nm long. The outer envelope is derived from the host cell membrane, and numerous short, thin projections are on the surface. The projections are about 5 nm long and are spaced approximately 10 nm apart.

Genome

The genome is not segmented and contains a single molecule of linear, negative-sense, single-stranded RNA. The complete genome is 11000-16000 nucleotides long. The genome codes for five proteins: nucleoprotein (N), phosphoprotein (P), matrix protein (M), glycoprotein (G), and the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (L).

Replication

Rhabdovirus replication follows the negative stranded RNA virus replication model. Negative stranded RNA virus transcription is the method of transcription. The virus exits the host cell by budding, and tubule-guided viral movement. Birds, mammals, and insects serve as the natural host. Transmission routes are fecal-oral, contact, airborne particles, and contact.

Diseases

Rhabdoviruses are responsible for various diseases in animals and humans, including rabies in mammals caused by the Rabies virus, and vesicular stomatitis in cattle, horses, and pigs caused by the Vesicular stomatitis Indiana virus.

See also

• Virology
• Virus classification
• List of viruses