If so, viroids have assumed significance beyond plant virology for evolutionary theory, because their properties make them more plausible candidates than other RNAs to perform crucial steps in the evolution of life from inanimate matter (abiogenesis).

What is the importance of viroids?

Viroids are minimal RNA replicons composed by a single-stranded and highly structured circular small RNA able to infect plants and induce diseases. Viroids lack protein-coding capacity and are therefore parasites of their host transcription machinery.

Which role do viroids play?

Viroid structure plays a major role in their replication, movement within the host, and in pathogenesis. Very small differences in structure can have a major effect on these properties. ... Most of the focus has been on viroid secondary structure, but within the infected cell these RNA molecules adopt tertiary structures.