POXVIRUS Meaning and
Definition
-
A poxvirus is a large, brick-shaped, double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the family Poxviridae. These viruses are known to infect a wide range of vertebrates, including humans. Poxviruses are characterized by their ability to replicate and multiply within the cytoplasm of infected cells, unlike most other DNA viruses that replicate within the cell nucleus.
Poxviruses encompass a diverse group of viruses, with each species designated by its specific host and tissue tropism. Various types of poxviruses are known to cause diseases in humans, such as smallpox, cowpox, monkeypox, and molluscum contagiosum. Each of these diseases presents distinct clinical features and severity levels.
The replication cycle of poxviruses involves a complex series of steps, including attachment and entry into host cells, uncoating of the viral genome, transcription and translation of viral genes, assembly of new viral particles, and finally, release from infected cells. Poxviruses are unique in that they produce cytoplasmic inclusion bodies called "viral factories" that serve as sites for viral replication.
The significance of poxviruses extends beyond their role as human pathogens. They have been extensively studied and utilized in scientific research and vaccine development due to their large genomes and programmable modification capabilities. These features have allowed them to be engineered for the expression of foreign genes, making them valuable tools in the fields of molecular biology and biotechnology.
Common Misspellings for POXVIRUS
- ooxvirus
- loxvirus
- -oxvirus
- 0oxvirus
- pixvirus
- pkxvirus
- plxvirus
- ppxvirus
- p0xvirus
- p9xvirus
- pozvirus
- pocvirus
- podvirus
- posvirus
- poxcirus
- poxbirus
- poxgirus
- poxfirus
- poxvurus
Etymology of POXVIRUS
The word "poxvirus" is derived from "pox" and "virus".
The term "pox" comes from the Old English word "pocc" which means a pustule or a blister. It is related to the Middle Dutch word "pocke" and the Middle Low German word "pocke", both of which also refer to a pustule or a blister. The Old English word was later influenced by the Middle French word "pocques" which also means pustules. "Pox" is commonly used to describe a group of infectious diseases characterized by the formation of skin lesions or pustules.
The word "virus" originated from Latin and was used to refer to a poisonous substance or venom. It originally meant the slimy liquid that oozes from an ulcer or wound.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
