Genetically Engineered Viruses

This book combines an up-to-date summary of how best to genetically engineer viruses with an overview of basic virology. This unique combination makes it an invaluable research tool for virologists and molecular biologists seeking to exploit viruses for a range of applications. Written by highly respected authors, the book also provides comparisons to and guidelines for the use of viruses in difference applications.

Discusses the controversial viewpoints regarding genetic engineering.

The introduction of novel genes into plants by genetic transformation holds great promise for plant breeding, and many crop species have been rendered virus-resistant by expression of viral sequences. However, it is essential to also evaluate the potential risks associated with this new technology. Among the types of genetically modified plants that could represent potential ecological risks, ones expressing viral sequences pose questions of particular interest. In this volume special attention is given to recombination in plants expressing sequences of RNA or DNA viruses, heterologous encapsidation or other forms of complementation in plants expressing coat protein genes, potential deleterious effects of satellite RNAs associated with cucumber mosaic virus, and sexual transmission of virus resistance genes to potentially weedy relatives.

Viral Gene Techniques is a practical laboratory guide to current techniques of molecular biology and genetics. The volume is concerned with methods for the analysis of viral genes and chromosomes: DNA viruses and RNA viruses including HIV are discussed. * Methods presented for ease of use and reasdy adaptation to new systems* Detailed experimental protocols included for:* Viral vectors - construction and use of DNA virus vectors (adenovirus, adeno-associated virus, vaccinia virus, Epstein - Barr virus)* DNA viruses - virus/host interactions, viral chromosomes , transcription regulation (viruses discussed include herpes simplex, hepatitis B, SV40, JC, Epstein-Barr, adenovirus)* Human Immunodeficiency Virus / retroviruses -quantitation of HIV-1 virus stock and RNA, retrovirus reverse transcription / integration, retrovirus-mediated cell fusion, use as cell lineage markers* RNA viruses - RNA virus assembly, analysis of RNA genomes, assays for RNA-binding proteins (viruses discussed include poliovirus, influenza virus, hepatitis delta virus)

In Virus Hybrids as Nanomaterials: Methods and Protocols expert researchers in the field detail many of the methods used to study virus for medial and nonmedical applications. These include methods and techniques for genetically engineering viruses for therapeutic purpose and vaccine production, chemically modified viruses for virus-templated nanoparticles production, and genetically engineered or chemically modified viral particles as imaging agents. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and key tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Virus Hybrids as Nanomaterials: Methods and Protocols seek to aid new researchers to get involved in this multidisciplinary area.

Plant viruses as agents to modify the plant phenotype for good or evil. The stability and utility of plant virus replicons. Plant virus genomes as sources of novel functions for genetic manipulations. Use ofn vitro transcription to study gene expression and replication of spherical, positive sense Rna plant viruses. Molecular pathologi of tobacco mosaic virus revealed by biollogically active DNAs. Geminiviruses as gene vectors. Geminiviruses as gene vectors. Genetic engineering with double-stranded DNA viruses. Expression of plant viral genes in transgenic plants. Genetic engineering with viroids.