2. Sub-Viral Particles Flashcards
1
Q
What are sub-viral particles?
A
infectious agents that are smaller and simpler than viruses
2
Q
What are prions?
A
self replicating proteins that are a misfolded version of a protein that already exists
3
Q
What are the diseases caused by prions?
A
transmissible spongiform encephalopathies
4
Q
What are transmissible spongiform encephalopathies?
A
diseases that cause degeneration in the nervous system
5
Q
What are the three things that categorize prions?
A
- long incubation periods
- destruction of neurons
- difficult diagnosis
6
Q
What are viroids?
A
short piece of circular, single stranded RNA with extensive self-complementarity
7
Q
What are some basics of viroids?
A
- generally do not code for proteins
- lack capsids
- some are catalytic ribozymes
- can produce siRNAs when replicated
