Capsid

The capsid is the protein shell surrounding the capsids of some viruses, such as the coronaviruses SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV. It consists of three proteins: shell, glycoprotein (GP), and transmembrane protein (TM).

Capsids are spherical in shape and have a special type of symmetry. They are virions that contain the genetic material of the virus. Viruses inside the capsid are maintained throughout their life cycle by enzymatic processes occurring inside the host cell.

Viruses such as coronaviruses can use capsids to protect their DNA from destruction by host immune factors. In addition, it also has a transport function since it contains genetic material that must be transferred to a new cell after infection.

In the event of an acute respiratory infection caused by a coronavirus, the primary task is the destruction of capsids, which are the main cells that protect viral RNA from the action of the immune system. This becomes possible with the help of pattern recognition factors (PAR)