Poxvirus

submitted 4 weeks ago by cailynn to science

Poxvirus is a family of double-stranded DNA viruses that infect vertebrates and arthropods. These viruses are known for their large, complex structures and ability to evade host immune responses. The Poxviridae family includes several genera, such as Orthopoxvirus, which contains smallpox and monkeypox viruses. Poxviruses replicate in the cytoplasm, encoding their own replication machinery. Their study is crucial for understanding viral pathogenesis and developing antiviral strategies, including vaccines and therapeutic interventions.