Giant Viruses Can Integrate into the Genomes of Their Hosts
Giant Viruses Can Integrate into the Genomes of Their Hosts
Rather than introducing small chunks of DNA as other viruses do, some giant viruses can contribute more than 1 million base pairs to a host’s genome, broadening the ways in which viruses may shape eukaryote evolution.
Rather than introducing small chunks of DNA as other viruses do, some giant viruses can contribute more than 1 million base pairs to a host’s genome, broadening the ways in which viruses may shape eukaryote evolution.
mimivirus
Image of the Day: Giant Virus
The Scientist and The Scientist Staff | Feb 28, 2018 | 1 min read
The Tupanvirus is named for the South American Guarani God of Thunder.
New Giant Virus Group Reported
Diana Kwon | Apr 6, 2017 | 4 min read
A genomic analysis of “Klosneuviruses” suggests that they evolved from small viruses that accumulated genetic material over time, but not all virologists are convinced.
Researchers Cast Doubt on CRISPR-Like System in Giant Viruses
Tanya Lewis | Jul 7, 2016 | 3 min read
Virologists challenge the hypothesis that mimiviruses possess a nucleic acid defense mechanism.
Giant Virus Has CRISPR-like Immune Defense
Kerry Grens | Mar 2, 2016 | 2 min read
The genome of a mimivirus strain resistant to a virophage has repeated phage sequences alongside nuclease- and helicase-coding sections.
Viruses Reconsidered
Didier Raoult | Mar 1, 2014 | 9 min read
The discovery of more and more viruses of record-breaking size calls for a reclassification of life on Earth.
Let There Be Life
Mary Beth Aberlin | Mar 1, 2014 | 3 min read
How did Earth become biological?
Contributors
Abby Olena, PhD | Mar 1, 2014 | 3 min read
Meet some of the people featured in the March 2014 issue of The Scientist.
“Alive” and In Focus
Sarah Webb, Knowable Magazine | Oct 1, 2012 | 7 min read
Imaging viruses in action
Genome Digest
Cristina Luiggi | Nov 2, 2011 | 3 min read
Meet the species whose DNA has recently been sequenced.
Cellular Origins of Giant Viruses?
Cristina Luiggi | Oct 16, 2011 | 1 min read
The largest virus to be sequenced prompts researchers to consider whether giant viruses were once full-fledged living organisms.