DNA synthesis begins by nicking of the DNA strands. Note the ends form hairpin loops. Concatemeric forms of pox viruses have been isolated. Synthesis of DNA is initiated near the terminus and involves discontinuous synthesis with RNA primers. Replication complex and not completely understood.
Virus replicates in factories at unique locations within the cytoplasm.
Recent observation that pox virus infection could lead to cell proliferation. This protein termed vaccinia growth factor, binds to the EGF receptor on the surface of cells and stimulated protein kinase. Other pirated genes include genes against interferon activity, inhibition of certqain cytokines etc. Use of pox virus as a vector for vaccines. Foreign genes can be inserted into vaccinia virus by homologous recombination.