Orthohepadnavirus


Orthohepadnavirus is a genus of viruses, in the family Hepadnaviridae. Humans and other mammals serve as natural hosts. There are currently 12 species in this genus including the type species Hepatitis B virus. Diseases associated with this genus include: hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cirrhosis.

Structure

Viruses in Orthohepadnavirus are enveloped, with spherical geometries, and T=4 symmetry. The diameter is around 42 nm. Genomes are circular, around 3.2kb in length. The genome codes for 7 proteins.
GenusStructureSymmetryCapsidGenomic arrangementGenomic segmentation
OrthohepadnavirusIcosahedralT=4Non-envelopedCircularMonopartite

Life cycle

Viral replication is nucleo-cytoplasmic. Replication follows the dsDNA replication model. DNA-templated transcription, specifically dsDNA transcription, with some alternative splicing mechanism is the method of transcription. Translation takes place by leaky scanning. The virus exits the host cell by budding, and nuclear pore export.
Human and mammals serve as the natural host. Transmission routes are sexual, blood, and contact.
GenusHost detailsTissue tropismEntry detailsRelease detailsReplication siteAssembly siteTransmission
OrthohepadnavirusHumans; mammalsHepatocytesCell receptor endocytosisBuddingNucleusCytoplasmVertical: parental; sex; blood