Dictionary > RNA virus

RNA virus

Definition
noun
A virus containing RNA as its genetic material. The RNA may be single stranded or double stranded. Examples of RNA viruses include Reoviruses, Picornaviruses, Togaviruses, Orthomyxoviruses, Rhabdoviruses, etc.
Supplement
The RNA viruses may be a double stranded (dsRNA) or single stranded (ssRNA) based on the type of their RNA, and they can be further grouped into negative sense or positive sense according to the sense of polarity of their RNA.
Most of them replicate in the cytoplasm. They don’t require as much polymerases of their host to replicate as DNA viruses do. Examples of human diseases caused by RNA viruses are SARS, influenza, hepatitis C, etc.
Synonym: ribovirus
Compare: DNA virus, ssRNA-RT virus.
Related terms:

Last updated on July 23rd, 2021

You will also like...

Biological Cell schematic diagram
Biological Cell Introduction

It only takes one biological cell to create an organism. A single cell is able to keep itself functional through its 'mi..

Bryophytes
Bryophytes

Bryophytes (nonvascular plants) are a plant group characterized by lacking vascular tissues. They include the mosses, th..

Independent Assortment and Crossing Over
Independent Assortment and Crossing Over

This tutorial describes the independent assortment of chromosomes and crossing over as important events in meiosis. Read..

Biological Energy
ATP & ADP – Biological Energy

ATP is the energy source that is typically used by an organism in its daily activities. The name is based on its structu..

green plant cells
Plant Cells vs. Animal Cells

Plant cells have plastids essential in photosynthesis. They also have an additional layer called cell wall on their cell..

Digestion and Absorption of Food
Digestion and Absorption of Food

The gastrointestinal system breaks down particles of ingested food into molecular forms by enzymes through digestion and..