These membranes derive from the cells in which the virus was last assembled but are modified to contain specific viral proteins, including the spike (S), membrane (M), and envelope (E) proteins.Ī key set of the proteins in the outer membrane project out from the particle and are known as spike proteins (S). The coronavirus core particle is further surrounded by an outer membrane envelope made of lipids (fats) with proteins inserted. In coronavirus, these proteins are called nucleocapsid (N). ![]() The coronavirus particles are organized with long RNA polymers tightly packed into the center of the particle, and surrounded by a protective capsid, which is a lattice of repeated protein molecules referred to as coat or capsid proteins. It is closely related to the viruses causing the earlier SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) outbreaks. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, infects mammals and birds. Coronaviruses, named for their “sun-like” shape observed in the electron microscope, use RNA molecules to encode their genes, as do influenza viruses, HIV, and rhinoviruses (common cold). Among the DNA viruses are Herpes, Adenoviruses, and wart viruses. Thus, they are very different from bacteria and fungi, which are self-reproducing, often in soil, water, organic wastes, sewage, or within organisms.Īnimal and plant viruses fall into two general classes, those in which the genetic material is long DNA molecules, and those in which the genetic material is RNA molecules. As long-time structural biologists we offer below basic information on coronavirus, that may be of assistance to those who have not studied virology.Īll viruses are parasites which can only reproduce within cells. ![]() Many concerned over the coronavirus outbreak may find it useful to understand more about coronaviruses than is currently being communicated by media sources. Structure and Organization of Coronaviruses Jonathan King, Professor of Molecular Biology, MIT Melissa Kosinski-Collins, Professor of Biology, Brandeis University Eric Sundberg, Professor of Biochemistry, Emory University School of Medicine Biophysicists Address COVID-19 Challenges.
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