Future issues in RNA virus evolution

Author: Holmes, Edward C

Source: Future Virology, Volume 1, Number 2, March 2006 , pp. 243-249(7)

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Abstract:

The study of RNA virus evolution has developed rapidly during the past 30 years. This review outlines some important recent findings, as well as a number of the remaining major challenges, particularly those that might explain why RNA viruses are the most important class of emerging diseases, yet often have difficulties adapting to sustained transmission cycles in new hosts. The author emphasizes the relevance of research on the underlying dynamics of mutation, fitness landscapes and the constraints to viral adaptation, as well as the evolution of recombination and reassortment. It is also suggested that a combination of theoretical, experimental and comparative approaches is essential for future studies of viral evolution, coupled with new genome sequence data on intrahost genetic variation.

Keywords: comparative method; emergence; evolution; fitness; intrahost variation; mutation; recombination

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2217/17460794.1.2.243

Publication date: 2006-03-01

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Future Virology provides an interdisciplinary forum for all scientists working in the fields of virology and genomic research. The journal delivers essential information in concise, at-a-glance article formats. Key advances in the field are reported and analyzed by international experts, providing an authoritative but accessible forum for this ever-expanding area of research.
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