ABSTRACT
Autographa californica multiply-enveloped Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus (AcNPV) was isolated from the alfalfa looper and is the most extensively studied of the baculoviruses. The ability of AcNPV to replicate in several lines of cultured cells established the predominant use of this virus in early molecular studies of baculoviruses. Much of the work in deciphering the mechanisms of AcNPV infection, as well as the molecular biology of its host range and virulence, has been applicable to studies in other baculovirus species. Expanded use of baculoviruses in integrated biorational approaches to control insect pests will require an understanding of baculovirus pathogenesis, particularly with regard to viral and insect cell factors that affect host range and virulence. Insect-specific scorpion neurotoxins have been introduced into baculoviruses to attempt to generate paralytic strains. A recombinant nuclear polyhidrosis viruses has been created carrying a synthetic insect diuretic hormone.
