RNA Virus

RNA viruses are a class of infectious agents which contain Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) instead of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA). They are important agents of human and animal diseases, including the common cold, influenza, and a range of more serious infections. They replicate by transcribing their genetic material from RNA to DNA, in order to create new viruses. RNA viruses exhibit high levels of mutation, which makes them resistant to treatments, making them attractive targets for scientific investigation. Advances in gene therapy have enabled scientists to identify antiviral targets in these viruses, and develop treatments for them.