8. Mpox Virus Replication Cycle
Poxvirus replication is distinct from that of other DNA viruses in that it occurs in the cytoplasm of the host cell. Poxviruses enter cells by an intricate mechanism that includes an attachment, hemifusion, and core penetration within the plasma membrane, or via endocytosis41. The specific method that poxviruses employ to enter cells is determined by their infectious form, which may either be a mature virion (MV) through one outer membrane or an extracellular enveloped virion (EV) with a different protein composition. In the EV form, the membrane that is particularly EV-specific is eliminated, preserving the underlying membrane affixed to the cell. EV is more specialized for cell-to-cell transmission despite MV’s greater prevalence because of its long, mobile projections made by the polymerization of actin which adheres to the cell’s surface. When a mature virion enters a cell, it loses its protective coating. Once within the cell’s cytoplasm, the virus releases ready-made enzymes and certain other enzymatic components that weaken the cell’s defences and start the synthesis of its original genes.