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Related Concept Videos

Viruses with RNA Genomes01:29

Viruses with RNA Genomes

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RNA viruses are categorized into positive-strand, negative-strand, or double-stranded groups based on their genomic structure and replication mechanisms. This classification dictates how they exploit host cellular machinery for protein synthesis and replication. Some RNA viruses also utilize reverse transcription as part of their life cycle, further diversifying their replication strategies.Positive-Strand RNA VirusesPositive-strand RNA viruses have genomes that function directly as messenger...
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Size and Structure of Viral Genomes01:26

Size and Structure of Viral Genomes

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Viral genomes exhibit remarkable diversity in size, structure, and composition, influencing their replication strategies and interactions with host cells. These genomes consist of either DNA or RNA and may be linear or circular. Additionally, they can be single-stranded or double-stranded, with each configuration affecting how the virus propagates within a host. RNA viruses, for instance, generally have smaller genomes than DNA viruses, a factor that contributes to their high mutation rates and...
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Subviral Agents01:29

Subviral Agents

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Subviral agents are infectious entities that resemble viruses but lack one or more viral components, such as a capsid or essential replication machinery. These agents include viroids, prions, and satellites, each possessing distinct structural and functional characteristics that influence their mode of infection and replication.Viroids are the simplest subviral agents, consisting of circular, single-stranded RNA molecules without a protein coat. They exclusively infect plants, relying entirely...
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Retroviruses02:33

Retroviruses

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Retroviruses and retrotransposons both insert copies of their genetic elements into the genome of the host cell. Thus, the viral genes are passed on when the host genome is replicated or translated. A typical retroviral DNA sequence contains 3-4 genes that encode the different proteins required for its structural assembly and function as a molecular parasite. This DNA is transcribed into a single mRNA, which is very similar in structure to conventional mRNAs, i.e., it is capped at the 5’...
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Viral Mutations00:36

Viral Mutations

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A mutation is a change in the sequence of bases of DNA or RNA in a genome. Some mutations occur during replication of the genome due to errors made by the polymerase enzymes that replicate DNA or RNA. Unlike DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase is prone to errors because it is not capable of “proofreading” its work. Viruses with RNA-based genomes, like HIV, therefore accrue mutations faster than viruses with DNA-based genomes. Because mutation and recombination provide the raw material...
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Retrovirus Life Cycles01:10

Retrovirus Life Cycles

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Retroviruses have a single-stranded RNA genome that undergoes a special form of replication. Once the retrovirus has entered the host cell, an enzyme called reverse transcriptase synthesizes double-stranded DNA from the retroviral RNA genome. This DNA copy of the genome is then integrated into the host’s genome inside the nucleus via an enzyme called integrase. Consequently, the retroviral genome is transcribed into RNA whenever the host’s genome is transcribed, allowing the...
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Viral Replicon Systems and Their Biosafety Aspects.

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This study reviews biosafety risks of viral RNA replicons, finding that while individual risk-reduction measures have uncertain effectiveness, combining multiple strategies can create a robust safety barrier for these self-amplifying RNA molecules.

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Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Biosafety

Background:

  • Viral RNA replicons are self-amplifying RNA molecules derived from wild-type viruses.
  • They can exist as naked replicons or be packaged into viral replicon particles (VRPs).
  • Originating from pathogenic viruses necessitates careful biosafety risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review potential biosafety risks associated with viral RNA replicons.
  • To compile information on risk mitigation strategies for naked replicons and VRPs.
  • To inform risk group assignment for synthetic replicon constructs.

Main Methods:

  • A literature review was conducted.
  • Focused on replicons from positive- and negative-sense single-stranded RNA viruses (excluding retroviruses).
  • Identified and analyzed potential biosafety risks and mitigation measures.

Main Results:

  • Risks for naked replicons include genome integration, persistence, and vesicle formation.
  • For VRPs, the primary risk is the formation of replication-competent virus (RCV) via recombination or complementation.
  • Measures focus on reducing RCV formation likelihood and modifying viral proteins.

Conclusions:

  • Scientific uncertainty remains regarding the effectiveness of individual risk-reduction measures for viral RNA replicons.
  • Employing multiple, diverse safety measures can establish a strong protective barrier.
  • Identified risks support risk group assignment for synthetic replicon designs.