Human adenoviridae

Human pathogenic adenoviruses are a family of DNA viruses primarily isolated from human pharyngeal tonsils (adenoids-namely). They belong to the genus Mastoviruses. In the genus Mastoviruses, there are 7 human adenovirus species (A to G) with 47 different serotypes. The human adenovirus species cause a variety of diseases, including respiratory, gastrointestinal, ocular conjunctival, and corneal. The viruses are highly contagious and resistant.

Adenoviruses dock to the cellular receptor with the button-like ends of their fibers. This is the coxsackie adenovirus receptor for most virus types CAR. In the course of penetration through the cell membrane, the virus loses its fibers and is taken up into the endosome. In the endosome, the capsid of the virus is partially destroyed by a viral protease and transported to a nuclear pore. Here, the genomic DNA is inserted into the karyoplasm and anchored therein with the help of the terminal protein TP. With the cooperation of cellular transcription factors, the early proteins are now expressed, including a viral DNA polymerase that is required for DNA replication. Morphogenesis of new viral particles takes place in the nucleus. With dissolution of the nuclear membrane and death of the cell, the new particles are released.

Human pathogenic adenoviruses (serotypes 1-47) are causative agents of numerous diseases of various organ systems (see below adenovirus infections). Seasonal accumulations are not recognizable. Infections often occur in community facilities such as day care centers.

Mainly affected are:

• Eyes
• Pharynx
• respiratory and
• gastrointestinal tract.

Acute respiratory infections often occur epidemically in young adults in close community.