lentivírus

Lentivirus is a genus of retroviruses in the family Retroviridae. They are characterized by their ability to infect both dividing and non-dividing cells, a trait that distinguishes them from other retroviruses. The lentivirus genome is composed of RNA and is reverse transcribed into DNA within the host cell. This DNA then integrates into the host cell's genome, allowing for the long-term expression of viral genes.

Replication of lentiviruses involves several steps. After entry into the host cell, the viral RNA is reverse transcribed into double-stranded DNA. This viral DNA is then transported to the nucleus and integrated into the host genome by a viral integrase enzyme. The integrated viral DNA, known as a provirus, is then transcribed by the host cell's machinery to produce viral RNA, which serves as both the genome for new virions and messenger RNA for viral proteins. These viral proteins are then assembled with the RNA genome to form new infectious virions, which bud from the host cell.

Lentiviruses are known for their association with serious diseases. The most well-known lentivirus is the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the causative agent of AIDS. Other lentiviruses infect various animal species, causing diseases such as visna-maedi in sheep and equine infectious anemia in horses. Due to their ability to efficiently transduce cells, including non-dividing ones, lentiviruses have become valuable tools in gene therapy and molecular biology research. Lentiviral vectors are engineered to deliver therapeutic genes into target cells, offering a promising approach for treating genetic disorders and other diseases.