AaV Viral Particles (IMAGE) Virginia Tech Caption 'Brown tide virus' is a member of a class called the giant viruses. Researchers have discovered genes for key cellular metabolic cycles in many giant viruses, suggesting that these microbes may be interacting with their hosts in more diverse ways than previously thought. Credit Dr. Chuan Xiao and Yuejiao Xian, the University of Texas at El Paso. Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.