Nucleocapsid

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Nucleocapsid

Nucleocapsid (pronounced: noo-klee-oh-cap-sid) is a complex composed of viral genome and associated proteins, which is the most basic unit of a virus's structure.

Etymology

The term "nucleocapsid" is derived from the Latin nucleus meaning "kernel" or "core", and capsid which comes from the Latin capsa meaning "box". This refers to the core or central part of the virus, which is enclosed in a protein shell or "box".

Definition

A nucleocapsid is the innermost layer of a virus, containing the genetic material (either DNA or RNA), surrounded by a protective shell of proteins, known as the capsid. The nucleocapsid provides protection to the viral genome and aids in its transfer between host cells.

Related Terms

  • Capsid: The protein shell of a virus that surrounds the nucleocapsid.
  • Viral envelope: A lipid bilayer that surrounds the nucleocapsid in some viruses.
  • Genome: The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
  • Virus: A small infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism.

See Also

External links

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