Viral envelope
Viral Envelope
The Viral Envelope (pronunciation: /ˈvaɪrəl ˈɛnvəˌloʊp/) is a critical component of many types of viruses. It is derived from portions of the host cell membranes (phospholipids and proteins), but includes some viral glycoproteins.
Etymology
The term "Viral Envelope" is derived from the Latin word "virus" meaning poison or venom, and the French word "enveloppe" meaning to wrap up. It refers to the protective layer that wraps up the virus.
Structure and Function
The viral envelope is not present in all viruses. It is found in many animal viruses and is often involved in the process of viral entry into host cells. The envelope can play a crucial role in the infectivity and virulence of the viruses. It contains viral glycoproteins that are important for the virus to bind to and enter host cells.
Related Terms
- Virus: A small infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism.
- Glycoprotein: Proteins that have sugar groups attached, which are often involved in cell recognition processes.
- Host: An organism that harbors a parasitic, a mutual, or a commensal symbiont.
- Infectivity: The ability of a pathogen to establish an infection.
- Virulence: The degree of pathogenicity within a group or species of parasites as indicated by case fatality rates and/or the ability of the organism to invade the tissues of the host.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Viral envelope
- Wikipedia's article - Viral envelope
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