RNA replication

RNA replication is the process by which a single-stranded RNA molecule copies itself to produce a new RNA strand. The enzyme RNA polymerase reads the original RNA sequence and assembles a complementary strand by linking together free nucleotide building blocks that match the original. This process ensures the genetic information is duplicated accurately, which is essential for the reproduction of certain viruses and during cellular functions. The new RNA strand can then serve as a template for making proteins or for producing more RNA, maintaining the genetic material necessary for life's processes.