allexivirus

Allexivirus is a genus of viruses in the order Picornavirales and the family Secoviridae. These viruses infect arthropods, particularly insects. The name "Allexivirus" is derived from the Latin word "allex," meaning "allure" or "entice," referring to their interaction with their hosts. Allexiviruses are characterized by their small, non-enveloped, icosahedral virions. Their genome consists of a single-stranded positive-sense RNA molecule.

Replication of allexiviruses occurs within the cytoplasm of host cells. Upon entry, the viral RNA serves as messenger RNA, which is translated into a large polyprotein. This polyprotein is then cleaved by viral proteases into functional proteins, including RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, structural proteins, and movement proteins. Movement proteins facilitate the spread of the virus from cell to cell within the host. Allexiviruses can be transmitted horizontally through feeding on infected hosts or via contaminated food sources.

Research on allexiviruses is primarily focused on understanding their transmission mechanisms, host range, and the molecular interactions involved in their replication cycle. While not known to directly infect humans, their impact on insect populations can have ecological and agricultural implications. Further studies are ongoing to explore the full diversity of allexiviruses and their potential roles in natural ecosystems.