virus genome

A virus genome is the complete set of genetic material that contains the instructions for making new virus particles. Unlike living cells that have DNA, many viruses have RNA as their genetic material. This genome is usually much smaller than those of living organisms. When a virus infects a host cell, it uses the cell's machinery to replicate its genome and produce new virus components. Understanding virus genomes helps scientists develop vaccines and treatments to combat viral infections and study how viruses evolve and spread.