Viral RNA Genome

Definition

A viral genome made up entirely out of ribonucleic acid (RNA). This genetic material carries all necessary instructions for making more viruses inside host cells.

Related terms

Viral Replication: The process by which a virus makes copies of itself within a host organism.

Capsid: The protein shell that surrounds and protects the genetic material of a virus.

Retrovirus: A type of RNA virus that inserts a copy of its genome into the DNA of a host cell in order to replicate.