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Published on: May 1, 2019
Cytoplasmic organization of POXvirus DNA replication
Birgit Schramm1, Jacomine Krijnse Locker
1European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Cell Biology and Biophysics Programme, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany.
Abstract:
Poxviruses, a family of large DNA viruses, are unique among DNA viruses, because they carry out DNA replication in the cytoplasm rather than the nucleus. This process does not occur randomly, but instead, these viruses create cytoplasmic 'mini-nuclei', distinct sites that are surrounded by membranes derived from the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that support viral replication. This review summarizes how distinct steps preceding cytoplasmic DNA replication, as well as replication itself, operate in the host cell. The collective data point to an important role for both the rough ER and the microtubules and indicate that these cellular structures help to co-ordinate the virus life cycle to ensure that individual steps occur at the right time and place. In a broader sense, they emphasize how viruses have evolved sophisticated ways to use host cells to optimize their life cycles to ensure efficient production of infectious progeny.
Insights
Poxviruses replicate DNA in the cytoplasm, forming unique 'mini-nuclei' supported by the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Microtubules and the ER coordinate this process for efficient viral replication.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Poxviruses are large DNA viruses with unique cytoplasmic replication mechanisms.
- Unlike most DNA viruses, poxviruses replicate their genetic material outside the host cell's nucleus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the distinct steps and mechanisms of cytoplasmic DNA replication in poxviruses.
- To highlight the roles of host cell structures in coordinating viral replication.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, summarizing existing research.
- Analysis of literature on poxvirus replication and host cell interactions.
Main Results:
- Poxviruses establish cytoplasmic 'mini-nuclei' enclosed by membranes from the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER).
- Both the rough ER and microtubules are crucial for organizing viral DNA replication.
- These cellular components ensure temporal and spatial coordination of the viral life cycle.
Conclusions:
- Poxviruses have evolved sophisticated strategies to utilize host cell machinery for efficient replication.
- The rough ER and microtubules play critical roles in optimizing the poxvirus life cycle.
- Understanding these interactions is key to comprehending viral propagation and evolution.
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