Adenoviruses

                        Adenoviruses are a group of medium sized, non enveloped, ds DNA viruses that share a common complement fixing antigen. They infect humans, animals and birds, shows strict host specifity. At least 47 serotypes of adenoviruses have been isolated from human sources. Adenovirus infections are common worldwide mostly in children. Many infections are asymptomatic. The virus may persist in the host for many months.It cause infections of the respiratory tract and eyes. These viruses carry DNA up to 7kb and are being investigated as potential vectors in gene therapy.