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Fuselloviridae

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Classification and Host Range

  • Family: Fuselloviridae
  • Host Range: Primarily infects Sulfolobus species (e.g., S. shibatae, S. solfataricus, S. islandicus).
  • Distribution: Ubiquitous in high-temperature (≥70°C) and acidic (pH ≤4) hot springs worldwide.
  • Taxonomy: Contains two genera:
    • Alphafusellovirus: Includes seven species (e.g., Sulfolobus spindle-shaped virus 1-9).
    • Betafusellovirus: Includes two species (e.g., Acidianus spindle-shaped virus 1, Sulfolobus spindle-shaped virus 6).


Virion Structure and Genome

  • Morphology: Enveloped, lemon-shaped virions.
  • Size: Approximately 60 nm in diameter and 100 nm in length.
  • Genome: Double-stranded circular DNA, around 17.3 kb.
  • Virion Composition:
    • Four virus-encoded structural proteins (VP1-VP4).
    • One DNA-binding chromatin protein of cellular origin.
    • Post-translational modifications: Glycosylation of VP1, VP3, and VP4. Proteolytic processing of VP1.
    • Lipid content: Contains glycerol dibiphytanyl glycerol tetraether (GDGT) lipids acquired from the host membrane.