Can a virus enter germ cells and have it's genome be present in every cell of the offspring?

[neodymiumcarbide]

Hello,

Is it possible for a virus to go through these stages?:

First find a way to enter the germs cells (of a human/animal). Then integrates its DNA with that of the cell. After that the cell through sexual intercourse fertilize another cell/is fertilized. And then the egg goes through division, creating a living multicellular organism. Then the virus is present in every single cell of that organism. (human embryo for example)

 

Thank you

[CharonY]

Yes. In fact ~5% of our genome is assumed to be of viral origin. it is relevant to note that they are also generally silent, i.e. they do not actively produce viral particle. One theory postulates that longer co-evolution results in viruses become less virulent and eventually just become passengers on the ride.

Edited August 1, 2017 by CharonY

[neodymiumcarbide]

Thank you

Are you aware of any known virus that actually does this?

[CharonY]

There are a number of viruses, including the family of Human endogenous retroviruses. There is a nice overview article that you may want to check out: Nelson et al. Mol Pathol 2003 11-18.

[Area54]

Here is a link to the article.