Satellite RNA

Definition

Satellite RNA are small, non-coding RNA molecules that depend on a helper virus for replication and encapsidation. They often modify the symptoms of the host plant's viral disease.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Satellite RNAs require a helper virus to replicate but do not encode proteins themselves.
2. They can modulate the severity of the disease symptoms caused by their helper viruses.
3. Satellite RNAs are distinct from viroids because they need a helper virus, whereas viroids are independent infectious agents.
4. The interaction between satellite RNAs and their helper viruses can be either beneficial or detrimental to the host organism.
5. Detection of satellite RNAs often requires molecular techniques such as RT-PCR due to their small size.

Review Questions

• What is the primary requirement for satellite RNA replication?
• How do satellite RNAs influence the symptoms of viral diseases in plants?
• In what way are satellite RNAs different from viroids?

Related terms

Viroid: Small, circular RNA molecules that infect plants and do not require a helper virus.

Virusoid: A type of satellite RNA that also requires a helper virus but is encapsidated in the protein coat of its helper virus.

Prion: Infectious proteins that cause neurodegenerative diseases by inducing abnormal folding of specific normal cellular proteins.