TWiV 1349: Smallpox and mummies

Liquid-liquid phase separation regulates gene expression during *Bacillus subtilis* phage SPO1 infection, where phage-encoded proteins GP27 and GP33 form biomolecular condensates that sequester host RNA polymerase. This mechanism inhibits early gene transcription, facilitating a transition to middle and late gene expression essential for the phage life cycle. Genomic analysis of ancient remains from Chile confirms the introduction of smallpox to South America by European colonizers, revealing that the virus underwent continuous gene inactivation as it adapted to human hosts. The discussion also critiques a recent executive order targeting childhood vaccination schedules, noting the absence of scientific evidence for proposed changes and the resulting risks to public health. These findings underscore the complex evolutionary trajectory of human-specific viruses and the critical role of compartmentalization in viral replication.