Viruses: From Understanding to Investigation, 2nd Edition

Viruses: From Understanding to Investigation provides researchers and students with a map for lifetime learning by presenting the definition and unique characteristics of viruses, including major topics, such as the virus lifecycle, structure, taxonomy, evolution, history, host-virus interactions and methods to study viruses. In addition, the book assesses the connections between, and among, the aforementioned topics, providing an integrated approach and in-depth understanding of how viruses work. The Second Edition includes new and expanded chapters adding new topics such as bioinformatics, mathematical formulas to calculate titers, identification of novel viruses, mRNA vaccines and vaccine successes, mechanisms of virally induced cancers, nucleocytoplasmic viruses (very large DNA viruses), replication of viroids and virusoids, and a major section on SARS CoV-2 (Covid-19). Employs a comparative strategy to emphasize unique structural and molecular characteristics that inform transmission, disease processes, vaccine strategies and host responses Presents a review of host cell and molecular biology and the immune system Features topical areas of research, including genomics in virus discovery, the virome, and beneficial interactions between viruses and their hosts Includes text boxes throughout with experimental approaches used by virologists Covers learning objectives for each chapter, methods and advances, question sets, quizzes and a glossary Updated Second Edition with new and revised chapters