Alphabaculovirus is a genus of viruses in the family Baculoviridae.[1] The natural hosts of species in this family are invertebrates, among them winged insects (Lepidopterans, Hymenopterans, Dipterans), and decapods. However, species in this genus have been isolated only from Lepidoptera.[2] There are 56 species in the genus.[3][4][5]
The following species are assigned to the genus:[5]
Viruses in Alphabaculovirus are enveloped, with circular genomes around 80–180 kbp in length. The genome codes for 100 to 180 proteins.[4]
Alphabaculovirus replication is nuclear. Entry into the host cell is achieved by attachment of the viral glycoproteins to host receptors, which mediates endocytosis. Replication follows the double-stranded DNA bidirectional replication model. DNA-templated transcription with some alternative splicing mechanism is the method of transcription. Translation takes place by leaky scanning. The virus exits the host cell by nuclear pore export and exists in occlusion bodies after cell death, remaining infectious until finding another host. Winged insects, arthropods, Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, Diptera, and Decapoda serve as natural hosts. Transmission routes are fecal-oral.[4]
Alphabaculovirus is a genus of viruses in the family Baculoviridae. The natural hosts of species in this family are invertebrates, among them winged insects (Lepidopterans, Hymenopterans, Dipterans), and decapods. However, species in this genus have been isolated only from Lepidoptera. There are 56 species in the genus.
