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From interferon induction to fungal viruses
1Department of Pure and Applied Biology, Imperial College of Science and Technology, London, U.K.
European Journal of Epidemiology
|December 1, 1988
Summary
Mycoviruses, or fungal viruses, are double-stranded (ds) RNA viruses. These mycoviruses can impact fungal hosts, causing effects like hypovirulence or respiratory deficiency.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Mycology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Mycoviruses were initially found in diseased mushrooms.
- The discovery of antiviral activities in healthy Penicillium isolates linked to mycovirus infections spurred significant research.
- Double-stranded (ds) RNA mycoviruses are now a distinct field of virology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the established families of dsRNA mycoviruses.
- To highlight the diverse impacts of mycoviruses on fungal hosts.
- To discuss the implications of mycoviral dsRNA in fungal diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of mycovirus research.
- Classification of dsRNA mycoviruses into established families (Totiviridae, Partitiviridae).
- Analysis of documented effects of mycoviral dsRNA on fungal phenotypes.
Main Results:
- Two main families of dsRNA mycoviruses, Totiviridae and Partitiviridae, are recognized.
- Satellite dsRNAs can code for killer toxins in some fungal species.
- Mycoviral dsRNA is linked to hypovirulence in Endothia parasitica and respiratory deficiency in Ophiostoma ulmi.
Conclusions:
- Mycoviruses represent a significant area of virological study with diverse impacts.
- The presence of dsRNA in fungi can lead to altered host physiology and disease characteristics.
- Further research into mycoviruses can provide insights into fungal biology and disease management.