Viruspartikkeli

Viruspartikkeli, also known as a virion, is the complete, infectious form of a virus. It consists of a genetic core, which is either DNA or RNA, surrounded by a protective protein coat called a capsid. Some viruses also have an outer lipid envelope derived from the host cell membrane. The viruspartikkeli is the vehicle by which the viral genetic material is transmitted from one host cell to another.

The structure of a viruspartikkeli is relatively simple, designed for efficient delivery of its genetic payload. The capsid is composed of repeating protein subunits called capsomeres, which assemble to form a specific geometric shape, such as an icosahedron or a helix. The genetic material within the capsid can be single-stranded or double-stranded, linear or circular, and can exist as DNA or RNA. The presence or absence of an envelope is a key characteristic used in viral classification.

Once a viruspartikkeli encounters a suitable host cell, it attaches to the cell surface and injects its genetic material. This genetic material then hijacks the host cell's machinery to replicate itself, producing new viruspartikkelit. These new particles are then released from the cell, often leading to cell death, to infect further cells. The study of viruspartikkelit is fundamental to understanding viral pathogenesis and developing antiviral therapies.