Multiple choice

Which of the following statements is not true for viroids?

  1. The viroid siRNAs contain sequences capable of complementary base pairing with the plant's messenger RNAs.

  2. Viroids are plant pathogens.

  3. Viroid genomes are extremely small in size.

  4. Viroid RNA codes for specific proteins.

  5. Some viroids are ribozymes.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Viroid RNA does not code for any protein. Their replication mechanism uses RNA polymerase II, a host cell enzyme normally associated with synthesis of messenger RNA from DNA, which instead catalyzes "rolling circle" synthesis of new RNA using the viroid's RNA as template.

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