Zika Virus Structure and Replication

Viruses are 'obligate intracellular parasites'. This means they must invade the cells of another living creature (a host) in order to survive and reproduce. Many mosquito-borne viruses, such as Zika, dengue and West Nile, are member of the family Flaviviridae. These viruses are transmitted in the saliva of mosquitoes when they bite, and are tiny structures made up of genetic material (RNA) surrounded by proteins. These outer proteins bind to and trick the human cell into opening and allowing the virus inside.



Once inside a cell, the virus takes over and turns the cell into a virus-replicating factory. Enzymes in the human cell respond to the RNA particles and make proteins needed to produce more virus particles. Many parts of the human cell are involved, including the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. Illness occurs if viruses reach high numbers, invade sensitive tissues, and cannot be controlled by the animal’s immune system.



*Special thanks to Shannon N. Bennett, PhD. for her contribution to the creation of this scene.*