Chapter 1 : The Taxonomy, Classification, and Characterization of Medically Important Viruses

Abstract:

Viruses are a complex and diverse group of organisms that may have incredibly diverse and ancient origins. Their interaction with humans not only involves disease processes, but also evolutionary pressures that shape viral characteristics. Viral taxonomy, classification, and characterization is not a simple academic exercise but practically improves our ability to diagnose, track, and compare viruses of medical importance and develop a better understanding of pathophysiologic processes. Over the last 5 years, there have been significant changes in the proper names of some commonly identified viruses of medical importance, relationships between these medically relevant viruses, technologic tools, as well as websites and bioinformatics tools. Changes, including what constitutes the definition of a viral species, have already had an impact on how viruses are characterized and classified. The expanded utilization of whole genome sequence analysis and metagenomic approaches has increased the amount of biological information available to the scientific community for virus characterization and categorization. With these newer molecular approaches for virus identification and characterization, as well as enhanced bioinformatics approaches, viral classification is as dynamic and challenging as ever, requiring continuous monitoring, reassessment, and updating to achieve a rational taxonomic framework.