Analysis of adaptive evolution in Lyssavirus genomes reveals pervasive diversifying selection during species diversification.

ABSTRACT: Lyssavirus is a diverse genus of viruses that infect a variety of mammalian hosts, typically causing encephalitis. The evolution of this lineage, particularly the rabies virus, has been a focus of research because of the extensive occurrence of cross-species transmission, and the distinctive geographical patterns present throughout the diversification of these viruses. Although numerous studies have examined pattern-related questions concerning Lyssavirus evolution, analyses of the evolutionary processes acting on Lyssavirus diversification are scarce. To clarify the relevance of positive natural selection in Lyssavirus diversification, we conducted a comprehensive scan for episodic diversifying selection across all lineages and codon sites of the five coding regions in lyssavirus genomes.

SUBMITTER: Voloch CM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4246234 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature