Viroids: Possibly the Smallest Pathogens on Earth

Viroids are the smallest known pathogens, consisting of a simple RNA strand without a protein coat. Initially discovered in potatoes, they are now known to affect various crops. Unlike viruses, viroids replicate using the host's RNA polymerase and can act as ribozymes. They are significant in agriculture due to their impact on crops and potential transmission through tools and insects. While they don't infect humans, viroids are crucial for understanding the origins of life, supporting the RNA world hypothesis, which suggests life began with RNA before DNA and proteins evolved.

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