Rhabdovirus

Rhabdoviruses are a family of enveloped RNA viruses that can infect various hosts, including animals, plants, and insects. One well-known member of this family is the rabies virus, which causes the severe and often fatal disease known as rabies. Rhabdoviruses have a bullet-shaped morphology and a single-stranded, negative-sense RNA genome. They enter host cells by binding to specific receptors and are known for their ability to cause a wide range of diseases in different species. The rabies virus, transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, primarily affects mammals, including humans. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost universally fatal if not treated promptly. Research on rhabdoviruses extends beyond their medical significance, as some members of this family also serve as valuable tools in molecular biology and gene expression studies. The study of rhabdoviruses continues to contribute to our understanding of viral pathogenesis, vaccine development, and antiviral strategies.