Caulimovirus is a genus of viruses, in the family Caulimoviridae order Ortervirales. Plants serve as natural hosts. There are 12 species in this genus. Diseases associated with this genus include: vein-clearing or banding mosaic.
Taxonomy
The genus contains the following species: Angelica bushy stunt virus Atractylodes mild mottle virus Carnation etched ring virus Cauliflower mosaic virus Dahlia mosaic virus Figwort mosaic virus Horseradish latent virus Lamium leaf distortion virus Mirabilis mosaic virus Soybean Putnam virus Strawberry vein banding virus Thistle mottle virus
Structure
Viruses in Caulimovirus are non-enveloped, with icosahedral geometries, and T=7, T=7 symmetry. The diameter is around 50 nm. Genomes are circular and non-segmented. The genome codes for 6 to 7 proteins.
Life cycle
Viral replication is nuclear/cytoplasmic. Entry into the host cell is achieved by attachment of the viral proteins to host receptors, which mediates endocytosis. Replication follows the dsDNA-RT replication model. DNA-templated transcription, specifically dsDNA-RT transcription is the method of transcription. Translation takes place by ribosomal shunting. The virus exits the host cell by nuclear pore export, and tubule-guided viral movement. Plants serve as the natural host. The virus is transmitted via a vector (aphid insects). Transmission routes are mechanical.