Alphapapillomavirus is a genus of viruses, in the family Papillomaviridae. Human and monkeys serve as natural hosts. There are 14 species in this genus.[1] Diseases associated with this genus include: warts, papilloma, malignant tumours. Genital-type, high-risk of malignancy (cervical cancer): HPV-16, 18. Genital-type, low-risk of malignancy (genital warts): HPV-6, 11.[2][3]
Viruses in Alphapapillomavirus are non-enveloped, with icosahedral geometries, and T=7 symmetry. The diameter is around 60 nm. Genomes are circular, around 8kb in length.[2]
Viral replication is nuclear. Entry into the host cell is achieved by attachment of the viral proteins to host receptors, which mediates endocytosis. Replication follows the dsDNA bidirectional replication model. DNA templated transcription, with some alternative splicing mechanism is the method of transcription. Translation takes place by leaky scanning, and ribosomal shunting. The virus exits the host cell by nuclear envelope breakdown. Humans and monkeys serve as the natural host. Transmission routes are sexual and contact.[2]