The Sendai virus (sɛn.daɪ vaɪ.rəs) is a type of paramyxovirus that causes respiratory infections in humans and animals. The spelling of the word "Sendai" comes from the Japanese city of the same name where the virus was first isolated. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is written as /sɛn.daɪ vaɪ.rəs/, with emphasis on the first syllable. The "ei" combination in the first syllable is pronounced as a long "a" sound, while the "ai" combination in the second syllable is pronounced as a diphthong "ai".
Sendai virus, also known as murine parainfluenza virus type 1 (MuPIV1), is a enveloped, negative-sense RNA virus that primarily infects rodents. It belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family and the Respirovirus genus. Sendai virus is widely used as a research tool in the field of virology due to its ability to readily infect a variety of cell types, including human cells, and its relatively low virulence in humans.
The virus was first isolated in Sendai, Japan in 1953, hence its name. Sendai virus typically causes respiratory tract infections in mice, rats, and hamsters. Infection with Sendai virus in laboratory mice can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, weight loss, nasal discharge, and pneumonia.
Sendai virus has been extensively studied for its role in understanding viral entry and fusion mechanisms, as well as its utility as a vector for gene delivery. In research settings, Sendai virus is commonly used to create viral-induced gene expression systems, including the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from somatic cells. Its ability to efficiently deliver exogenous genetic material into target cells makes it a valuable tool in gene therapy and genome engineering applications.
Given its importance in virology research, numerous studies have focused on the molecular biology, replication cycle, and pathogenicity of Sendai virus. Additionally, efforts have been made to develop antiviral therapies and vaccines against Sendai virus infections.
The word Sendai in Sendai virus refers to the city of Sendai, which is located in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. The virus was first isolated and identified in Sendai in 1954, hence the name Sendai virus.