Abstract
The double-stranded (ds)DNA virus phiCh1 infects the haloalkaliphilic archaeon Natrialba magadii. The complete DNA sequence of 58 498 bp of the temperate virus was established, and the probable functions of 21 of 98 phiCh1-encoded open reading frames (ORFs) have been assigned. This knowledge has been used to propose functional modules each required for specific functions during virus development. The phiCh1 DNA is terminally redundant and circularly permuted and therefore appears to be packaged by the so-called headful mechanism. The presence of ORFs encoding homologues of proteins involved in plasmid replication as well as experimental evidence indicate a plasmid-mediated replication strategy of the virus. Results from nanosequencing of virion components suggest covalent cross-linking of monomers of at least one of the structural proteins during virus maturation. A comparison of the phiCh1 genome with the partly sequenced genome of Halobacterium salinarum virus phiH revealed a close relationship between the two viruses, although their host organisms live in distinct environments with respect to the different pH values required for growth.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
