ENDOGENOUS RETROVIRUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are genetic elements that originated from ancient retroviral infections and are permanently integrated into the genome of a host organism. Retroviruses are a type of RNA virus that can convert their RNA genome into DNA using the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which allows them to integrate the viral DNA into the host cell's genome. Endogenous retroviruses are remnants of past retroviral infections that underwent this integration and were then passed down through generations.
ERVs are present in the genomes of many organisms, including plants, animals, and humans. They make up a significant portion of the genetic material in these genomes. Once integrated, ERVs become a permanent part of the host organism's DNA and are passed on to future generations through germ cells, such as sperm and eggs.
These retroviral DNA sequences are typically inactive and do not produce infectious viral particles. However, in some cases, certain ERVs can retain the ability to generate viral proteins, although they are generally harmless. They are often considered "fossils" of ancient viral infections, providing a record of ancient viral evolution and a unique perspective into the long-standing relationship between viruses and their hosts.
Endogenous retroviruses have been found to play various roles in host biology. They can influence the regulation of genes, provide genetic diversity, and even contribute to evolutionary processes by supplying raw genetic material for host adaptation and innovation. Research on ERVs continues to uncover their significance in development, disease, and overall genome function.
Common Misspellings for ENDOGENOUS RETROVIRUS
- wndogenous retrovirus
- sndogenous retrovirus
- dndogenous retrovirus
- rndogenous retrovirus
- 4ndogenous retrovirus
- 3ndogenous retrovirus
- ebdogenous retrovirus
- emdogenous retrovirus
- ejdogenous retrovirus
- ehdogenous retrovirus
- ensogenous retrovirus
- enxogenous retrovirus
- encogenous retrovirus
- enfogenous retrovirus
- enrogenous retrovirus
- eneogenous retrovirus
- endigenous retrovirus
- endkgenous retrovirus
- endlgenous retrovirus
- endpgenous retrovirus
Etymology of ENDOGENOUS RETROVIRUS
The word "endogenous" comes from the Greek root "endon", which means "within" or "inner", and the Greek root "genesis", which means "origin" or "source". Combined, it refers to something that originates or comes from within an organism.
"Retrovirus" is a combination of the Latin word "retro", meaning "backward" or "reverse", and "virus", which refers to a type of infectious agent that replicates inside the living cells of an organism.
Therefore, "endogenous retrovirus" is a term that describes a retrovirus that is derived from or has its origin within the DNA of an organism.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
