RNA Structures and Their Role in Selective Genome Packaging

To generate infectious viral particles, viruses must specifically select their genomic RNA from milieu that contains a complex mixture of cellular or non-genomic viral RNAs. In this review, we focus on the role of viral encoded RNA structures in genome packaging. We first discuss how packaging signals are constructed from local and long-range base pairings within viral genomes, as well as inter-molecular interactions between viral and host RNAs. Then, how genome packaging is regulated by the biophysical properties of RNA. Finally, we examine the impact of RNA packaging signals on viral evolution.

Automated summary

The generation of infectious viral particles involves the specific selection of genomic RNA from a complex mixture of cellular and non-genomic viral RNAs. This process is influenced by viral encoded RNA structures, packaging signals constructed from base pairings within viral genomes, and the biophysical properties of RNA. Additionally, the impact of RNA packaging signals on viral evolution is examined.