Mastrevirus

Mastrevirus is a genus of ssDNA viruses, in the family Geminiviridae. Mostly monocotyledonous plants serve as natural hosts. They are vectored by planthoppers. There are 55 species in this genus. Diseases associated with this genus include: maize streak virus: maize streak disease (MSD).^[1][2]

Mastreviruses have an unusually diverse range of capsid proteins among the Geminiviridae. While all other genera have species with essentially identical proteins (and their producing genetic sequences) among themselves, Mastrevirus has seven protein clusters and three species that each constitute their own.^[3]

Viruses in Mastrevirus are non-enveloped, with icosahedral geometries, and T=1 symmetry. The diameter is around 22 nm, with a length of 38 nm. Genomes are circular and non-segmented, around 2.6-2.8kb in length.^[1]

Viral replication is nuclear. Entry into the host cell is achieved by penetration into the host cell. Replication follows the ssDNA rolling circle model. DNA-templated transcription is the method of transcription. The virus exits the host cell by nuclear pore export, and tubule-guided viral movement. Mostly monocotyledonous plants serve as the natural host. The virus is transmitted via a vector (leafhopper). Transmission routes are vector and mechanical.^[1]

The genus contains the following species, listed by scientific name and followed by the exemplar virus of the species:^[2][4]

• Viralzone : Mastrevirus
• ICTV