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Classification; functions; evolution; and applications of defective viral genomes

delete2026-08-12
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OA
AI
Y
YX Yunting Xue
Y
YB Yufang Bi
C
CL Chenyang Liu
Z
ZY Zhengjun Yi *
B
BS Bangyao Sun *
DOI:10.3389/fmicb.2026.1921324delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Defective viral genomes (DVGs) are truncated or rearranged products derived from parental viruses during replication and they harbour numerous lethal mutations or large-fragment deletions. Current studies have demonstrated that DVGs play crucial roles in interfering with normal viral replication and activating host innate immunity; suggesting that the presence of DVGs not only may modulate the course of viral infection but also holds substantial potential for applications in antiviral drugs and immune adjuvants. Nevertheless; the mechanisms underlying the functions of different types of DVGs remain incompletely elucidated; thus emphasising the necessity of updating analytical and research methodologies. Consequently; while summarizing the core functions; mechanisms of action; and the evolution of DVGs; this review provides a detailed overview of their classification methods to shed light on the characteristics of DVG formation and functions. In addition; it reviews the current detection technologies of DVGs to enable the identification and accurate quantification of DVGs. Furthermore; the discussion encompasses the distinctive mechanisms of action and the potential applications of DVGs derived from diverse viruses; with the objective of providing novel insights into the development of clinical antiviral drugs.
Keywords:
vector
evolution
antiviral drugs
vaccine adjuvants
defective viral genomes

Journal

Frontiers in Microbiology cover
Frontiers in Microbiology
IF:
4.5
Papers:
4.0W
Citations:
16.6W

Organization

S
School of Medical Laboratory
Scholars:
30
Papers: 10
Citations: 0
S
school of food and pharmaceutical sciences
Scholars:
2
Papers: 1
Citations: 0
Cited Papers

Cited Papers

Citing Papers

Citing Papers