viral envelope

Definition

Target type: cellularcomponent

The lipid bilayer of a virion that surrounds the protein capsid. May also contain glycoproteins. [GOC:bf, GOC:bm, GOC:jl, ISBN:0781718325, Wikipedia:Viral_envelope]

The viral envelope is a membrane that surrounds the capsid of some viruses. It is derived from the host cell membrane and is composed of a phospholipid bilayer, embedded with viral glycoproteins. The glycoproteins are responsible for the attachment and entry of the virus into host cells. The viral envelope is essential for the virus to survive and replicate.

**Components of the Viral Envelope:**

**1. Phospholipid Bilayer:** The envelope is composed of a phospholipid bilayer, which is a double layer of lipids. This layer acts as a barrier between the viral core and the external environment.

**2. Viral Glycoproteins:** These are proteins that are embedded in the phospholipid bilayer. They are crucial for the attachment and entry of the virus into host cells.

* **Attachment Proteins:** These glycoproteins bind to specific receptors on the surface of host cells. This interaction initiates the process of viral entry.
* **Fusion Proteins:** These glycoproteins mediate the fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane. This allows the viral capsid to enter the host cell cytoplasm.

**3. Other Viral Proteins:** In some cases, the envelope may also contain other viral proteins, such as matrix proteins. These proteins help to maintain the structural integrity of the envelope and can also play a role in viral assembly and release.

**Function of the Viral Envelope:**

* **Protection:** The envelope protects the viral genome from the external environment.
* **Attachment and Entry:** Viral glycoproteins mediate the attachment and entry of the virus into host cells.
* **Evasion of the Immune System:** Some viral envelopes contain proteins that can evade the host immune system.
* **Assembly and Release:** The envelope can help to assemble and release new viral particles.

**Significance of the Viral Envelope:**

The viral envelope is a critical component of many viruses. It plays a crucial role in the virus's ability to infect and replicate in host cells. Understanding the structure and function of the viral envelope is essential for developing antiviral therapies and vaccines.'
"

Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)