Molecular Basis of Virus Evolution

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521455332 ISBN 13: 9780521455336

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1995

Advances in molecular biology have led to huge increases in determining the phylogenetic history of viruses. This book is one of the first solely devoted to the origins and evolution of viruses, and of the ways in which they interact with their cellular hosts and vectors. Intitial chapters cover impacts of viruses and their control. Further chapters detail genetic variation of viruses and the molecular basis of interrelation at the population level and the molecular basis and evolution of this relationship. Seventeen chapters follow on genetic origins, sources of variation, population genetics, and interactions with hosts. Practical virologists will find the chapters on phylogenetic analysis techniques very useful. The highly adaptive nature of viruses will be of particular interest to evolutionists.

Book Description:

Virus phylogenetics have advanced with molecular techniques. This 1995 book details molecular biology of particular virus groups. Chapters cover virus evolution, impacts, control, genetic variation and interrelation with the host. It will be of particular interest to virologists and evolutionists.

Review:

"This volume should be read by virologists interested in evolution, and by evolutionary biologists interested in viral evolution, evolution of virulence, or using viruses as experimental systems. More than a textbook, it is undoubtedly an important work in the growing field of virus evolution, and an indispensable source of information for researchers in the field of emerging and reemerging viral diseases." Weigang Qiu, Quarterly Review of Biology

"The book is consistently provocative and intriguing, and I already am looking forward to subsequent editions. In addition to the individual chapters on specific groups of viruses, the reader will be greatly aided by the reference chapters on phylogenetic analysis that should provide practical assistance to those interested individuals who are totally unacquainted with the practical and technical issues of molecular phylogeny." Mark Schleiss, Doody's Health Sciences Book Review Journal

"...provides an important summary of these molecular systematic investigations of wild viral populations, as well as some insights into the early stages of the marriage between virology and evolutionary biology....it is very productive reading material for anyone interested in viral evolution." David M. Hillis, Science

"...a very useful addition to the scientific literature." Dr. Guy Lemay, CSM Newsletter