Double-stranded RNA virus
Double-stranded RNA virus (pronunciation: duh-buhl-stran-ded ar-en-ay vahy-ruhs) is a type of virus that has a genome composed of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). The term originates from the Latin virus meaning poison and the English double-strand referring to the structure of the RNA.
Overview
Double-stranded RNA viruses belong to the class of Reoviridae, which is a family of viruses that infect a broad range of hosts, including plants, animals, and humans. These viruses are unique in that they replicate their RNA within the core of the virus particle, unlike most other RNA viruses.
Structure
The structure of a double-stranded RNA virus is composed of an outer protein shell, known as the capsid, and an inner core of double-stranded RNA. The RNA is arranged in segments, each of which codes for a different protein.
Replication
The replication process of double-stranded RNA viruses is unique. The virus attaches to a host cell and injects its RNA into the cell. The viral RNA is then transcribed into mRNA by the viral RNA polymerase, which is then used to produce viral proteins. These proteins and the original viral RNA are then assembled into new virus particles.
Diseases
Double-stranded RNA viruses are responsible for a number of diseases in humans and animals. These include Rotavirus, which causes severe diarrhea in children, and Bluetongue virus, which affects livestock.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Double-stranded RNA virus
- Wikipedia's article - Double-stranded RNA virus
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