Viroid Replication: Rolling-Circles, Enzymes and Ribozymes
Author Information
Author(s): Ricardo Flores, María-Eugenia Gas, Diego Molina-Serrano, María-Ángeles Carbonell, Alberto Gago, Selma De la Peña, Marcos Daròs, José-Antonio
Primary Institution: Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (UPV-CSIC)
Hypothesis
How do viroids replicate despite lacking protein-coding ability?
Conclusion
Viroids replicate through a host-dependent rolling-circle mechanism involving specific RNA polymerases and ribozymes.
Supporting Evidence
- Viroids lack protein-coding ability and rely on host RNA polymerases for replication.
- Viroids can replicate in both the nucleus and chloroplasts of host cells.
- Replication involves a rolling-circle mechanism with specific steps for synthesis, cleavage, and circularization.
Takeaway
Viroids are tiny RNA molecules that can't make proteins, so they use the host's machinery to copy themselves.
Methodology
The study reviews the mechanisms of viroid replication, focusing on the roles of host enzymes and ribozymes.
Limitations
The exact mechanisms of some steps in viroid replication remain unclear.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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