ABSTRACT
The name is derived from adenoid tissue, from which the first representatives were isolated. Adenoviruses comprise the genera Mastadenovirus (mammals) and Aviadenovirus (birds). Particles are icosahedra of 80-90 nm in diameter. Viruses are generally host-specific. Human adenoviruses are associated with benign respiratory disease, conjunctivitis, and gastroenteritis; human adenovirus type 11 is strongly linked to hemorrhagic cystitis. Although there is no association with human cancer, serotypes 12, 18, and 31 are highly oncogenic when injected into baby rodents. Canine adenoviruses cause hepatitis and respiratory disease. Avian adenoviruses are noted for causing hemorrhagic enteritis and pulmonary edema. Adenoviruses are currently investigated for their regulation of cell apoptosis (below); diagrams illustrating adenovirus pathogenesis seem to be nonexistent. Adenovirus infection and adenoviral gene E1A stimulate cellular replication. This results in suicidal elimination of virus-infected cells by apoptosis. To counter premature cell death, adenoviruses have evolved a mechanism encoded by gene E1B. The 55K protein of E1B interferes with the p53 tumor suppressor protein and the E1B 19K protein inhibits p53-dependent apoptosis.
