RNA is often described as the single-stranded cousin of DNA, the double-stranded molecule that makes up the genomes of all living organisms. Many types of non-living viruses, however, carry their genetic information in a double-stranded form of RNA (dsRNA). When the human immune system detects the presence of this foreign RNA, it sounds the alarm by increasing the production of protective cytokines called interferons (IFN), which activate the innate immune response against viral invaders.
Researchers discover a new type of RNA that inhibits a broad range of viral infections
RNA is often described as the single-stranded cousin of DNA, the double-stranded molecule that makes up the genomes of all living organisms. Many types of non-living viruses, however, carry their genetic information in a double-stranded form of RNA (dsRNA). When the human immune system detects the presence of this foreign RNA, it sounds the alarm by increasing the production of protective cytokines called interferons (IFN), which activate the innate immune response against viral invaders.