capsomere
Quick Summary
A capsomere is a protein subunit that makes up the protein shell, or capsid, of a virus. The capsid surrounds the virus's genetic material, which is either RNA or DNA. These capsomeres typically associate with the virion's nucleic acid.12
Viruses are classified based on their protein capsid structure. Some viruses have a helical rod-like structure, like the tobacco mosaic virus, while others form symmetrical polygons, often icosahedral in shape. The number and arrangement of capsomeres are used in classifying these virus families.12
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virion…with regularly arranged units called capsomeres, two to five or more along each side; and the nucleic acid is densely coiled within. Other virions have a capsid consisting of an irregular number of surface spikes and the nucleic acid loosely coiled within. Virions of most plant viruses are rod-shaped; the…
Read More…with regularly arranged units called capsomeres, two to five or more along each side; and the nucleic acid is densely coiled within. Other virions have a capsid consisting of an irregular number of surface spikes and the nucleic acid loosely coiled within. Virions of most plant viruses are rod-shaped; the…
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virusThe protein capsid…of protein subunits known as capsomeres, which usually associate with, or are found close to, the virion nucleic acid.
Read More…of protein subunits known as capsomeres, which usually associate with, or are found close to, the virion nucleic acid.
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