microvirus

A microvirus is a type of virus that infects bacteria. These viruses, also known as bacteriophages or simply phages, are distinct from viruses that infect animals, plants, or fungi. Microviruses are ubiquitous in nature, found in soil, water, and within the bodies of living organisms, particularly in their guts.

The structure of a microvirus typically consists of genetic material, either DNA or RNA, enclosed within a protein coat called a capsid. Some microviruses also possess a tail structure that aids in attaching to and injecting their genetic material into a host bacterium.

The life cycle of a microvirus involves attachment to a specific bacterial host, followed by the injection of its genetic material. Once inside, the viral genetic material hijacks the bacterium's cellular machinery to replicate itself, producing numerous new viral particles. This process can lead to the lysis, or bursting, of the host bacterium, releasing the newly formed microviruses to infect other bacteria. Some microviruses can also integrate their genetic material into the host's genome, a process known as lysogeny, where they replicate along with the bacterium without immediately causing lysis.

The study of microviruses is important for several reasons. They are valuable tools in molecular biology research, particularly for understanding gene expression and DNA replication. Furthermore, their ability to infect and kill bacteria has led to significant interest in their potential use as therapeutic agents, known as phage therapy, to combat antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.