Notes on Genus: Circular satellite RNAs
no particles of their own
Type member:
Contents
General Description
This is one of three groups of
ss satellite RNAs. Like the other groups, the RNA is encapsidated within the coat protein of its helper virus. Members are distinguished by having small genomes of about 350 nucleotides, which do not encode any functional protein and which are sometimes present as circular molecules.
Morphology
There are no distinctive virions, because the satellite RNA is encapsidated by the helper virus.
Genome
Monopartite, single-stranded, RNA of
c. 350 nucleotides.
Genus Genomic Organization
The RNA does not encode any functional protein. The replication of at least some members involves self-cleavage of circular progeny molecules by an RNA-catalysed reaction.
Type Member Genomic Organization
The RNA of
c. 360 nucleotides does not encode any functional protein.
