Viral Antigens

Key Biological Properties: ASFV is a large, enveloped virus with a complex structure, including an icosahedral capsid, inner membrane, and core shell . The virus has a linear genome of approximately 170-190 kilobases, encoding more than 150 proteins .

Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: ASFV primarily infects cells of the monocyte-macrophage lineage . The virus replicates in the cytoplasm of infected cells, forming discrete perinuclear factory areas . ASFV is found in high concentrations in various tissues, including the tonsils, lymph nodes, spleen, and liver .

Primary Biological Functions: ASFV’s primary function is to replicate within host cells and produce progeny virions . The virus encodes numerous proteins that modulate host immune responses, inhibit apoptosis, and facilitate viral replication .

Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: ASFV evades the host immune system by inhibiting the activation of cytokines such as interferon (IFN) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) . The virus also encodes proteins that interfere with host gene transcription and immune signaling pathways .

Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: ASFV enters host cells through receptor-mediated endocytosis, utilizing pathways such as clathrin-dependent endocytosis and macropinocytosis . The virus encodes proteins that inhibit signaling pathways in infected macrophages, modulating transcriptional activation of immune response genes .

Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: ASFV proteins interact with various host cell receptors and signaling molecules to facilitate viral entry, replication, and immune evasion . The virus also encodes enzymes required for replication and transcription of its genome .

Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Expression and Activity: ASFV regulates its gene expression through a highly orchestrated process involving immediate-early, early, intermediate, and late transcription stages . The virus encodes proteins that modulate host cell signaling pathways and immune responses .

Transcriptional Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications: ASFV utilizes various transcriptional regulators and post-translational modifications to control the expression and activity of its proteins . The virus also encodes proteins that inhibit apoptosis and promote viral replication .

Biomedical Research: ASFV serves as a model for studying viral pathogenesis, immune evasion, and host-virus interactions . Researchers are exploring the use of CRISPR technology to develop attenuated virus vaccines for ASFV .

Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Strategies: ASFV detection relies on molecular techniques such as PCR and serological assays . Efforts are ongoing to develop effective vaccines and antiviral drugs to control ASFV infections .

Role Throughout the Life Cycle: ASFV plays a critical role in the life cycle of infected pigs, from initial infection to disease progression and transmission . The virus undergoes various stages of replication, assembly, and release within host cells . ASFV’s ability to evade the host immune system and persist in the environment contributes to its high transmissibility and pathogenicity .