Unit 1: 6.4 Viroids, Virusoids, and prions

Question 1

Viroids

Answer 1

Short strand of circular RNA capable of self replication

• do not have a protein coat to protect their genetic info
• cause diseases in plants

Question 2

Virusoids

Answer 2

Non self replicating ssRNAs

• cells need to be infected with a helper virus
• does not code for any proteins it only replicates virusoid RNA

Question 3

Prions

Answer 3

• have proteins but no DNA or RNA
• rouge form of protein PrPc
• transmissible spongiform encephalopathy

Question 4

Cytophathic effects

Answer 4

Observable cell abnormalities due to viral infection

• loss of adherence to the surface of container
• changes in shaped
• nucleus shrinkage
• fusion
• inclusions
• lysis