Baculoviridae is a family of viruses. Arthropods, among the most studied being Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera and Diptera, serve as natural hosts. Currently, 85 species are placed in this family, assigned to four genera. [1][2][3] Baculoviruses are known to infect insects, with over 600 host species having been described.

Baculoviruses are pathogens that attack insects and other arthropods. Like some human viruses, they are usually extremely small (less than a thousandth of a millimeter across), and are composed primarily of double-stranded DNA that codes for genes needed for virus establishment and reproduction.

In this review, we will address the most widespread technological applications of baculoviruses. We will begin by summarizing their natural cycle both in larvae and in cell culture and how it can be exploited.

The name baculovirus was proposed by Mauro Martignoni, who because of his Italian-Swiss heritage was a Latin scholar. He suggested that they be named baculoviruses (family Baculoviridae) because of the rod-shape of their virions, which is derived from Latin baculum — cane, walking stick, staff.

Jun 28, 2019 · Baculoviruses, which belong to the family Baculoviridae, are a group of DNA viruses that infect insects. These viruses are very small, rod-shaped structures, composing of a protein coat...

The baculoviruses (family: Baculoviridae) are a group of large DNA viruses that infect insects. These viruses are well known for their utility and versatility as gene expression vectors, biological pesticides, and vectors for transduction of mammalian cells [1] – [3]. However, baculoviruses are much more than just useful laboratory tools.

Topics including taxonomy, genome replication, early and late gene transcription, the application of baculoviruses as insecticides, the molecular basis for the remarkable ability of these viruses to express genes at high levels, and the interrelationships of baculovirus and transposable elements.