LENTIVIRUS Meaning and
Definition
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A lentivirus is a type of retrovirus, which is a class of RNA viruses that can convert their RNA genome into DNA and integrate it into the host cell's DNA. Lentiviruses are characterized by their ability to cause a slow and progressive infection, often resulting in chronic diseases.
These viruses are approximately 100-150 nanometers in diameter and possess a lipid envelope surrounding their cone-shaped capsid. They are spherical in shape and contain a single-stranded RNA genome. The RNA contains several genes that encode the necessary proteins for viral replication, including reverse transcriptase, which allows the conversion of RNA to DNA.
Lentivirus infections can occur in various animal species, including humans, primates, and other mammals. They are known to cause several diseases in humans, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, which leads to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Lentiviruses primarily target immune cells, particularly CD4+ T cells, which play a crucial role in the body's immune response.
One distinguishing feature of lentiviruses is their ability to establish long-lasting infections by integrating their DNA into the host cell's genome. This integration allows the viral genetic material to be replicated and passed on to daughter cells during cell division, ensuring the persistence of the infection.
Researchers have harnessed the unique properties of lentiviruses for gene therapy applications. By modifying the viral genome to carry therapeutic genes instead of disease-causing ones, scientists can use lentiviruses as delivery vehicles to introduce desired genes into target cells. This approach shows promise for the treatment of genetic disorders, cancer, and other diseases.
Common Misspellings for LENTIVIRUS
- kentivirus
- pentivirus
- oentivirus
- lwntivirus
- lsntivirus
- ldntivirus
- lrntivirus
- l4ntivirus
- l3ntivirus
- lebtivirus
- lemtivirus
- lejtivirus
- lehtivirus
- lenrivirus
- lenfivirus
- lengivirus
- lenyivirus
- len6ivirus
- len5ivirus
- lentuvirus
Etymology of LENTIVIRUS
The word "lentivirus" is derived from the Latin term "lente" meaning "slow" or "slowly". This is because lentiviruses are a subgroup of retroviruses known for their long incubation period and slow progression of diseases. The term "lentivirus" was coined in the 1970s to describe this particular type of virus.
