Double-stranded RNA

Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) consists of two complementary strands of RNA molecules twisted together in a helical shape, similar to the way double-stranded DNA is structured. It is often found in some viruses and plays a role in triggering immune responses in cells, alerting the body to infection. Unlike the single-stranded RNA that carries genetic information of most organisms and viruses, dsRNA is typically a sign of viral activity, making it a key element in antiviral defenses and certain research applications, such as gene silencing.