GEMINIVIRUS Meaning and
Definition
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Geminiviruses are a group of plant viruses that belong to the family Geminiviridae. They are named after their unique twinned (geminate) particle morphology, which is characterized by two incomplete icosahedral capsids that combine to form a complete virion. Geminiviruses are small, single-stranded DNA viruses that primarily infect a wide range of economically important crops, including vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants.
These viruses are transmitted to plants through insect vectors, mainly whiteflies, which acquire the virus from infected plants and transmit it to healthy ones during feeding. Geminiviruses can also be mechanically transmitted through infected plant sap.
Upon infection, Geminiviruses cause various symptoms in plants, including yellowing, stunting, leaf curling, and reduced yield. They can have a significant impact on crop productivity and quality, leading to significant economic losses for farmers.
Geminiviruses have a circular DNA genome that replicates within the plant nucleus. They utilize host factors and enzymes to replicate their DNA and establish infection. The replication process often involves co-transcription of viral DNA and generation of double-stranded intermediates.
Due to their economic importance and widespread distribution, Geminiviruses have been extensively studied. Understanding their biology, transmission mechanisms, and interactions with host plants is crucial for developing strategies to control and manage their spread, such as the use of resistant crop varieties or insect control measures.
Common Misspellings for GEMINIVIRUS
Etymology of GEMINIVIRUS
The word "Geminivirus" is derived from the Latin word "geminus", meaning "twin" or "double", and the suffix "-virus" denoting a virus. The term refers to the unique characteristic of Geminiviruses, which have a twin appearance due to their circular, single-stranded DNA genome. The genome is composed of two strands that are complementary and resemble a double helix, giving rise to the name "Geminivirus". This name was first used by a virologist named Harrison for a group of plant viruses that he discovered in the mid-1960s.
