Glossary - Viral Nanoparticles: Tools for Materials Science and Biomedicine - page 259

Reporter gene A reporter gene encodes a marker that is easily

detectable, such as a fluorescent protein.

Reverse
transcription

The transcription of single-stranded RNA into the
complementary DNA by a reverse transcriptase.

RGD motif The RGD motif is the peptide containing the amino

acid sequence arginine-glycine-asparagine. RGD
binds to integrin receptors that are overexpressed
on cancer cells and tumor endothelium. RGD is used
as a targeting ligand.

Segmented genome A genome that is divided into several parts. Rather

than being encoded in one DNA or RNA strand, the
genome is divided into several strands.

Semiconductor A material that has electrical properties between

that of a conductor and an insulator.

Smectic A See “smectic crystal”

Smectic C See “smectic crystal”

Smectic crystal A liquid crystal in which molecules adopt a uniform

orientation. The molecules are also ordered in well-
defined layers; they are aligned side by side. One
further differentiates a smectic A from a smectic
C phase. In the smectic A phase the molecules are
oriented along the main axis; in a smectic C phase
the particles are tilted from the main axis. See also
“nematic crystal.”

Transcription Transcription describes the process by which the

DNA sequence is translated into a messenger RNA
(mRNA) sequence.

Transfection The introduction of genes into cells using viral

vectors or other nanoparticle platforms.

Transferrin An iron-binding blood plasma glycoprotein, which

is responsible for the binding and distribution of
iron ions within the body.

Translation The conversion of the messenger RNA into the

amino acid sequence.

Tumor xenografts A tumor xenograft is generated by transplanting

tumor cells of a different species into a host
organism; this is typically achieved via subcutaneous
injection.