Pbunavirus (synonyms: Pb1likevirus, Pbunalikevirus) is a genus of viruses in the order Caudovirales, in the family Myoviridae. Bacteria serve as natural hosts. There are 27 species in this genus.[1][2][3]
Pbunaviruses are nonenveloped, with a head and tail. The head has a diameter of about 75 nm. The tail is around 140 nm long displaying a criss-cross pattern, has a small baseplate, and is contractile.[1]
Genomes are linear, around 65-75kb in length. The genome codes for 90 to 130 proteins.[1] Some species have been fully sequenced and are available from ICTV. They range between 64k and 73k nucleotides, with 88 to 127 proteins. The complete genomes are available from here.[3]
Viral replication is cytoplasmic. The virus attaches to the host cell using its terminal fibers, and ejects the viral DNA into the host cytoplasm via contraction of its tail sheath. DNA-templated transcription is the method of transcription. Once the viral genes have been replicated, the procapsid is assembled and packed. The tail is then assembled and the mature virions are released via lysis. Bacteria serve as the natural host. Transmission routes are passive diffusion.[1]
According to the ICTV's 2010–11 report, the genus Pb1likevirus was first accepted as a new genus, at the same time as all of its contained species. This proposal is available here. The following year (2012), the name was changed to Pbunalikevirus. This proposal is available here.[2] The genus was later renamed to Pbunavirus.
