Reviews, Perspectives, and Commentaries in Fundamental Virology

Fundamental virology represents the cornerstone of our understanding of viruses, encompassing their structure, replication, evolution, and interactions with host organisms. With decades of groundbreaking research, the field continues to face critical questions regarding the diversity of viral life, the molecular mechanisms underlying infection, and the evolutionary dynamics shaping viral populations. While considerable advances have been made in viral genomics, structural biology, and host-pathogen interactions, ongoing debates persist around viral classification, mechanisms of mutation and recombination, and the interface between viruses and cellular life. Recent studies leveraging high-throughput sequencing, cryo-electron microscopy, and advanced computational modelling have accelerated discoveries, shedding new light on viral complexity and pathogenesis. However, substantial knowledge gaps linger, particularly in understanding virus-host co-evolution, the emergence of novel viral pathogens, and the fundamental principles governing viral ecology and evolution.This Research Topic aims to provide a platform bringing together current knowledge, sharing expert perspectives, and stimulating scholarly discussion on fundamental aspects of virology. By assembling high-quality reviews, insightful perspective articles, and thought-provoking commentaries, the aim is to capture the evolving landscape of viral research, address unresolved controversies, and identify key areas poised for future investigation. Contributions are encouraged to challenge prevailing paradigms, propose novel frameworks or hypotheses, and critically assess foundational concepts in the discipline.The scope of this Research Topic encompasses the broad domain of fundamental virology, with attention to both established and emerging areas of research. Submissions should focus on conceptual, theoretical, and methodological advances relevant to all virus types and their fundamental biology. To gather further insights, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:o Virus structure and assemblyo Mechanisms of viral replication and gene expressiono Viral evolution, diversity, and phylogeneticso Virus-host interactions and co-evolutiono Novel and understudied viruses, including virus discoveryo Emerging methods in virology researcho Viral ecology and the role of viruses in ecosystemsSubmissions may include Reviews, Perspective articles, and Commentaries, in line with the article types accepted by the Fundamental Virology section of Frontiers in Virology. Topic editors: Masako Nomaguchi, Jeremy R Thompson Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78516/reviews-perspectives-and-commentaries-in-fundamental-virology