The replication strategy of the virus depends on the nature of its genome. Each genome segment is transcribed separately to produce monocistronic mRNAs. Translation results in the formation of a polyprotein product, which is subsequently cleaved to form the mature proteins. Complex Transcription e.g. Togaviruses. Non-segmented e.g. Rhabdoviruses.
Replication occurs as above and monocistronic mRNAs are produced.
On infection of a new cell, the first event to occur is repair of the gapped genome, followed by transcription. To successfully replicate its genome, the virus must present mRNA to the cell which can be recognized and translated into virus-encoded proteins. DNA viruses release their genome into the nucleus and rely on the cellular machinery for transcription. Segmented genomes are usually transcribed to produce monocistronic mRNAs. One advantage of monocistronic mRNAs is that various proteins can be produced in different amounts, rather than in a constant ratio.