The genome sequence of the multinucleocapsid nucleopolyhedrovirus of the Chinese oak silkworm Antheraea pernyi

The complete genome sequence of the Liaoning isolate of the Antheraea pernyi multinucleocapsid nucleopolyhedrovirus (AnpeMNPV) was determined. The viral genome size is 126,246 bp, relatively GC-rich (53.5% G + C), with 145 predicted open reading frames (ORFs) of more than 50 amino acids, accounting for more than 97% of the genome. 97% of the ORFs have predicted functions or homologues in other baculoviruses. There are six homologous repeat regions (hrs) and two bro homologues, which are associated with regions of genome instability. The virus lacks the p35 homologue but encodes two members of the inhibitors of apoptosis (iap) gene family. The presence of a gp64 homologue in the AnpeMNPV genome and results from gene parity plot and phylogenetic analysis using the 29 core baculovirus genes clearly classify AnpeMNPV as a group I NPV. The divergence of genome sequences in two geographical NPV isolates suggests of great genetic heterogeneity of baculovirus populations in nature.