title: [Structure and classification of alpha-herpesvirus].
abstract: Virion of herpesviruses (100 to 200 nm in diameter) consists of a core containing a linear double-stranded DNA, an icosahedral capsid, an amorphous layer designated as the tegument which surrounds the capsid, and a protein-containing lipid membrane designated as the envelope. Terminal and internal reiterated sequences are present on herpesvirus genomes, giving a diverse range of DNA structures. The family Herpesviridae is divided into three subfamily of Alpah-, Beta- and Gammaherpesvirinae. Herpesviruses seem to have diversified from a common ancestor, in a manner mediating co-speciation of herpesviruses with host species through species-specific latent infection.
authors.affiliation: Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University.
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Umene
mesh_terms: D018138:Alphaherpesvirinae / Q000145:classification* / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D006801:Humans