Virology 3 Views 1 Answers
What is the diameter of human rhinovirus (HRV) particles, and what are their structural components?
What is the diameter of human rhinovirus (HRV) particles, and what are their structural components?
Answer
The diameter of human rhinovirus (HRV) particles is approximately 320 Å (32 nm).
The structural components of HRV include:
- Capsid Proteins: HRV is composed of three different types of capsid proteins:
- VP1: This protein is involved in receptor binding and is located on the surface of the capsid.
- VP2: This protein contributes to the overall structure and stability of the capsid.
- VP3: Similar to VP2, this protein also plays a role in maintaining the integrity of the capsid.
- Quasi-Symmetrical Arrangement: The capsid proteins are arranged in a quasi-symmetrical manner, forming a T = 3 icosahedral structure. This arrangement allows for the formation of a stable viral shell that encapsulates the viral RNA.
- Viral Canyon: HRV features a distinct structural feature known as the “viral canyon,” which is a deep cleft that encircles the fivefold axes of the capsid. This canyon is critical for binding to cellular receptors, such as ICAM-1, facilitating the virus’s entry into host cells.
- Nucleic Acid: Inside the capsid, HRV contains its single-stranded RNA genome, which is essential for viral replication and infection.
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