viral RNA

Viral RNA is the genetic material of certain viruses, serving as the instruction set that directs how the virus replicates and infects host cells. Unlike human DNA, which is double-stranded, viral RNA can be single-stranded or double-stranded, depending on the virus. When a virus infects a cell, its RNA hijacks the cell’s machinery to produce new virus particles. This RNA often codes for proteins the virus needs to assemble and infect other cells. Understanding viral RNA helps scientists develop treatments and vaccines to block virus replication and transmission.