**Core Concept**
Paramyxoviruses are a family of enveloped viruses that include measles, mumps, parainfluenza, and respiratory syncytial viruses. The genome of these viruses is composed of single-stranded RNA, which is a characteristic feature of many RNA viruses.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The genome of paramyxoviruses is a non-segmented, single-stranded RNA molecule that is negative-sense, meaning it serves as a template for mRNA synthesis. The genome is approximately 15,000 nucleotides long and encodes for six to seven proteins, including the nucleocapsid protein, phosphoprotein, matrix protein, and fusion protein. The RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) is responsible for replicating the viral genome.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is not specified, but it is likely to be incorrect because the genome of paramyxoviruses is not composed of DNA.
* **Option B:** This option is also not specified, but it is likely to be incorrect because the genome of paramyxoviruses is not a segmented RNA molecule.
* **Option C:** This option is not specified, but it is likely to be incorrect because the genome of paramyxoviruses is not composed of double-stranded RNA.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The paramyxovirus genome is highly conserved among different species, which is why the measles vaccine can provide protection against other paramyxoviruses, such as parainfluenza and mumps.
**Correct Answer:** C. Single-stranded RNA
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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