poxviruksia

Poxviridae is a family of large, complex viruses that infect vertebrates and arthropods. These viruses are characterized by their brick-shaped or ovoid morphology and their double-stranded DNA genome. The Poxviridae family is divided into two subfamilies: Chordopoxvirinae, which infect vertebrates, and Entomopoxvirinae, which infect insects.

Within the Chordopoxvirinae subfamily, several genera are medically and historically significant. Orthopoxvirus, for instance, includes the variola virus, the causative agent of smallpox, a devastating human disease that was eradicated in 1980 through global vaccination efforts. Monkeypox virus, another member of this genus, has recently gained attention due to its emergence in human populations. Other genera include Avipoxvirus, which infects birds, and Capripoxvirus, which affects sheep and goats.

Poxviruses replicate in the cytoplasm of the host cell, which is unusual for DNA viruses. Their large genomes encode many enzymes necessary for replication and virion assembly, allowing them to complete their life cycle outside the host cell nucleus. Transmission typically occurs through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials, or via respiratory droplets. While many poxvirus infections are self-limiting, some can cause severe morbidity and mortality, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Research continues to investigate poxviruses for their potential as oncolytic agents and for vaccine development.