Adenovirus Ad-36 virion (implicated in obesity)

Adenovirus. Web image measures 600 pixels across, original image is 4096 pixels across

Adenovirus 36 (Ad-36) are small icosahedral viruses with characteristic fibres (fibers) radiating from the 12 vertices of their icosahedral capsids. These fibres are used in viral attachment to the host cells. The D species were previously known as subgroup D adenoviruses.

HUMAN ADENOVIRUSES: are divided into a number of species designated by letters (e.g. Ad-36 belongs to the D species). The viruses are naked or non-enveloped and their genome is made from double stranded DNA. The adenoviruses are responsible for colds and other diseases and their ability to integrate their DNA makes them useful in gene transfer. They have acted as model systems in the study of cell biology.

VIRUSES AND OBESITY: The interesting thing about Ad-36 (and also Ad-37) is that they have been implicated in the human obesity epidemic. The increased adiposity seems to be seen along with a decrease in blood levels of triglycerides and cholesterol.

In this computer graphic, the translucent yellow outer layer represents the viral hexon proteins (arranged as an icosahedral capsid). At the twelve vertices lie the pentons (purple) from which radiate the fibers (blue). The red inner ball represents the double stranded DNA genome (viral genes).