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Biogenesis and dynamics of the coronavirus replicative structures
Marne C Hagemeijer1, Peter J M Rottier, Cornelis A M de Haan
1Virology Division, Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands. mch143@andromeda.rutgers.edu
Viruses
|December 4, 2012
Summary
Coronaviruses assemble replication complexes on cellular membranes, forming unique structures essential for viral RNA synthesis. This review details the biogenesis and dynamics of these crucial viral replication factories.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Coronaviruses are significant RNA viruses infecting humans and animals.
- Viral RNA synthesis occurs within specialized cellular membrane structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on coronavirus replicative structure biogenesis.
- To summarize membrane anchoring of replication-transcription complexes.
- To highlight the dynamics of these structures and associated proteins.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on coronavirus replication.
- Analysis of findings on membrane rearrangement and protein localization.
- Focus on double-membrane vesicles and convoluted membranes.
Main Results:
- Coronaviruses induce extensive cellular membrane rearrangements.
- Replicative structures serve as sites for viral RNA synthesis.
- Double-stranded RNA intermediates are found within double-membrane vesicles.
Conclusions:
- Coronavirus replication relies on dynamic, membrane-associated complexes.
- Understanding these structures is key to comprehending viral propagation.
- Further research focuses on the dynamics of replication machinery.
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