Potyviruses (Potyviridae)

Abstract

The family Potyviridae includes more than 210 plant-infecting virus species sorted currently into 10 genera Bevemovirus, Brambyvirus, Bymovirus, Ipomovirus, Macluravirus, Poacevirus, Potyvirus (the largest, with up to 175 members) Roymovirus, Rymovirus, and Tritimovirus. All members of the family, known as potyvirids, share common features, such as the genome composition with single-stranded (ss)RNA, positive sense, monopartite genomes, except for bipartite bymoviruses, and a gene expression strategy with a large polyprotein further processed by viral-encoded proteases, which give rise to mature products. A revision of the scientific knowledge on potyvirids is provided, dealing with aspects of molecular biology, pathogenicity and control.