Virus structures are really important for how viruses infect us and make us sick. Here are some key points to know:
Capsid Shape: The capsid is like a protective shell for the virus's genetic material. It can be shaped like a sphere (icosahedral) or a spiral (helical). For example, the flu virus has a helical shape, which helps it enter our cells more easily.
Envelope Presence: Some viruses, like HIV, have an outer layer called an envelope made of fats. This helps them merge with and enter our cells. Other viruses, like norovirus, don’t have this envelope and have stronger structures to survive in tough environments.
Surface Proteins: These proteins help viruses attach to our cells. A good example is the spike protein found in SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19. This spike is crucial for helping the virus get inside our cells.
In short, the unique shapes and features of viruses play a big part in how they infect us and make us sick.
Virus structures are really important for how viruses infect us and make us sick. Here are some key points to know:
Capsid Shape: The capsid is like a protective shell for the virus's genetic material. It can be shaped like a sphere (icosahedral) or a spiral (helical). For example, the flu virus has a helical shape, which helps it enter our cells more easily.
Envelope Presence: Some viruses, like HIV, have an outer layer called an envelope made of fats. This helps them merge with and enter our cells. Other viruses, like norovirus, don’t have this envelope and have stronger structures to survive in tough environments.
Surface Proteins: These proteins help viruses attach to our cells. A good example is the spike protein found in SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19. This spike is crucial for helping the virus get inside our cells.
In short, the unique shapes and features of viruses play a big part in how they infect us and make us sick.