GO:0099002 / Biological Process

GO:0099002

symbiont genome ejection through host cell envelope, short tail mechanism

Entry of a symbiont's genome into the host cell through the host cell envelope via a short tail ejection system consisting a central tube, the connector which attaches the tail to the phage capsid and releases inner core proteins. Upon binding to the host cell surface, the phage displays a tube-like extension of its short tail that penetrates both host membranes. This tail extension comes from the release of viral core proteins with channel forming properties. Occurs in non-enveloped prokaryotic viruses.