How metagenomics has revolutionized our understanding of viruses

Abstract

Metagenomics, the study of genetic material recovered directly from environmental samples, has revolutionized our understanding of viruses, particularly those that were previously undetected or difficult to study. By analyzing entire communities of organisms (including viruses) in their natural habitats, metagenomics provides deep insights into the diversity, abundance, and ecological roles of viruses in various environments.