40P

40P, also known as 40P/40P, is a type of double-stranded DNA virus that belongs to the family Polyomaviridae. It is a small, non-enveloped virus with an icosahedral capsid, measuring approximately 42 nanometers in diameter. The virus is named for its ability to transform rodent cells into cancerous cells, a property first observed in 1940 by researchers studying polyoma virus.

40P is commonly found in rodents, particularly mice and rats, and is often used as a model organism in virology research. It has a single-stranded DNA genome that is approximately 5,200 base pairs long. The virus replicates in the nucleus of infected cells and can integrate its genome into the host cell's DNA, leading to the expression of viral proteins and the transformation of the cell.

The virus has been studied for its potential as a vector for gene therapy, as it can efficiently deliver foreign genes into cells. However, its oncogenic potential in humans has raised concerns, and its use in human applications is limited. Research continues to explore the virus's mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications, while also addressing safety issues related to its oncogenic properties.