Which type of virus is classified as a reovirus and replicates RNA?

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Study for the UCF PCB4524 Molecular Biology II Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Gear up for success!

Reoviruses are a distinct class of viruses that are characterized by their multipartite double-stranded RNA genomes. They are unique in that they are not enveloped, which provides them with a level of resistance to environmental stresses. The replication cycle of reoviruses occurs in the cytoplasm of the host cell, where the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase synthesizes mRNA from the viral RNA templates. This ability to replicate RNA is a defining feature of reoviruses, setting them apart from other types of viruses that replicate through different mechanisms or types of nucleic acids.

The other types of viruses listed have distinct characteristics that do not classify them as reoviruses. Retroviruses, for example, utilize an RNA genome but replicate through reverse transcription into DNA, which is then integrated into the host genome. Coronaviruses possess a single-stranded RNA genome and are known for their role in respiratory illnesses, while rhabdoviruses are characterized by their single-stranded RNA and unique bullet-shaped structure. Each of these virus types has distinct replication strategies and genomic compositions, underscoring the specific classification of reoviruses as the focus of this question.