Viroids have :-a)DS RNA enclosed by protein coatb)DS DNA not enclosed ...
Viroids are generally known as plant pathogens. They are small, single-stranded, circular RNA particles. They do not have a capsid or outer envelope of protein making them simpler than virus, but like viruses, can reproduce only within a host cell. They do not have capacity to make their own protein. They produce only a single, specific RNA molecule. Thus, the correct option is 'ssRNA not enclosed by a protein coat.'
Viroids have :-a)DS RNA enclosed by protein coatb)DS DNA not enclosed ...
**Viroids have SS RNA not enclosed by protein coat.**
Viroids are small, infectious agents that consist of a single-stranded (SS) RNA molecule. They are different from viruses in that they lack a protein coat, or capsid. Viroids were first discovered in the 1970s and are known to cause diseases in plants.
**1. Viroids: Structure and Composition**
- Viroids consist of a circular or linear single-stranded RNA molecule that ranges in length from approximately 246 to 467 nucleotides.
- The RNA molecule is highly structured and folded upon itself, forming a stable secondary structure.
- Unlike viruses, viroids do not have a protein coat (capsid) that surrounds and protects their genetic material.
- Viroids do not encode any proteins and are therefore dependent on host cellular machinery for replication and gene expression.
**2. Replication and Transmission**
- Viroids replicate within the nucleus or chloroplasts of infected plant cells.
- The replication process involves the use of host enzymes and RNA polymerases.
- Viroids can be transmitted through various means, including mechanical transmission (e.g., via contaminated tools), seed transmission, and insect vectors (such as aphids).
**3. Pathogenicity and Effects on Plants**
- Viroids are known to cause diseases in plants, resulting in stunted growth, abnormal development, and reduced crop yield.
- They can interfere with normal gene expression and disrupt cellular processes in infected plants.
- Examples of plant diseases caused by viroids include potato spindle tuber viroid, citrus exocortis viroid, and avocado sunblotch viroid.
**4. Detection and Control**
- The detection of viroids in plants often involves specialized laboratory techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nucleic acid hybridization.
- Control measures for viroid diseases in plants include the use of disease-free planting material, the elimination of infected plants, and the implementation of strict quarantine measures.
In conclusion, viroids are small infectious agents that consist of a single-stranded RNA molecule. They do not have a protein coat and are known to cause diseases in plants. Viroids replicate within infected plant cells and can be transmitted through various means. Detection and control of viroid diseases in plants require specialized laboratory techniques and the implementation of appropriate measures to prevent their spread.
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