Mar 07 2009 49 mins 97
Vincent, Dick, and Alan review a new macaque model for HIV-1 infection, a possible role for Epstein-Barr virus in multiple sclerosis, accidental release of H5N1 by a vaccine company, resistance of frogs to virus infection, and extreme virology - the biggest and smallest viruses and viral genomes. Links for this episode: Harold Varmus on The Daily ShowMacaque model for HIV-1 infection (photo of pig-tailed macaque)Possible role of Epstein-Barr virus in multiple sclerosisAccidental distribution of H5N1 influenza virus by pharmaceutical companyMajor histocompatibility class I marker and frog resistance to viral infectionSmallest virion and DNA genome: CircovirusLargest virion and DNA genome: MimivirusBiggest RNA genome: (we forgot to mention on the show!) Coronavirus SW1List of viral genome lengths at NCBISputnik virophagePapers for Macintosh and iPhone Science blog of the week: H5N1 by Croft Science podcast pick of the week: MicrobeWorld video Science book of the week: Autism’s False Prophets by Paul A. Offit, MD (podcast with Dr. Ginger Campbell)
