Nukleokapsiids

Nukleokapsiid refers to the complex formed by viral genetic material, the nucleic acid, enclosed within its protein coat, the capsid. This fundamental structure is characteristic of all viruses. The nucleic acid can be either DNA or RNA, and it may be single-stranded or double-stranded, linear or circular. The capsid is assembled from repeating protein subunits called capsomeres, which self-assemble around the viral genome. The specific arrangement and number of these capsomeres determine the overall shape of the capsid, leading to various symmetries such as icosahedral, helical, or complex.

The nukleokapsiid serves several crucial functions for the virus. It protects the viral genetic material from degradation by nucleases in the host cell and from environmental damage. It also plays a role in the attachment and entry of the virus into a susceptible host cell, as specific proteins on the capsid surface often mediate these processes. In some cases, the nukleokapsiid itself, or components of it, are directly involved in initiating viral replication within the host. The study of nukleokapsiid structure is vital for understanding viral assembly, infection mechanisms, and for the development of antiviral therapies.