BIOL 1002 Chapter : The Viral Capsid
Document Summary
The viral capsid: the protective outer shell: capsomeres: Identical protein subunits that spontaneously self assemble to form the capsid: helical capsid: Rod shaped capsomeres that form a continuous helix around the nucleic acid. Three dimensional, 20-sided figure with 12 evenly spaced corners. The viral envelope: composed of the membrane system of the host cell membrane or nuclear membrane regular membrane proteins are replaced with viral proteins spikes: protruding glycoproteins essential for attachment to the host cell. Possesses only the genes necessary to invade host cells and redirect their activity. Other substances in the virus particle: enzymes for specific operations within the host cell.
