BI-112 Virus-Viroid Wi25

Viroids

Naked, circular RNA molecules that can cause diseases, primarily in plants.

RNA World Hypothesis

The theory that RNA molecules were the first forms of life on Earth.

Naked Circular RNA

A form of RNA found in viroids, consisting of 200-400 nucleotides, with no genes.

Rogue RNAs

The specific type of RNA that viroids represent, capable of causing diseases in plants.

Transmission of Viroids

Spread through biting insects and vascular tissues in plants.

Introns

Non-coding regions in host gene DNA that are spliced out in the final RNA.

Hepatitis D

A disease caused by a viroid-like RNA, which requires the co-infection of Hepatitis B virus.

Virus Structure

Composed of nucleic acid (DNA or RNA), a protein coat (capsid), and sometimes a lipid envelope.

Lytic Infection

A virus infection that results in the destruction of the host cell.

Vaccine

A substance that trains the immune system to recognize and combat pathogens, such as viruses.

SARS-CoV-2

The virus responsible for COVID-19, which uses ACE2 receptors for cell entry.

AIDS

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, a condition caused by HIV that leads to immune system collapse.

HAART

Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy, a treatment regimen for HIV/AIDS involving multiple drugs.

Bacteriophage

A virus that specifically infects bacteria.

Ebola

A severe viral disease, known for outbreaks caused by the Ebola virus.

Lipid Bilayer Membrane

A double layer of lipids that make up the outer envelope of some viruses, acquired from the host.