Enveloped virus

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Enveloped virus is a type of virus that has an outer wrapping or envelope. This envelope comes from the host cell's membrane and can be composed of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. The envelope protects the virus from the host's immune system and helps it to enter and exit host cells.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The structure of an enveloped virus is composed of two main parts: the envelope and the nucleocapsid. The envelope is derived from the host cell membrane and contains viral proteins that are important for infecting host cells. The nucleocapsid contains the viral genome and is surrounded by the envelope.

Replication[edit | edit source]

The replication of enveloped viruses involves several steps. First, the virus attaches to the host cell using proteins on its envelope. The virus then enters the cell, either by fusing with the cell membrane or by being taken up by the cell in a process called endocytosis. Once inside the cell, the virus uncoats to release its genome, which is then replicated using the host's cellular machinery. The newly formed viral particles are then released from the cell by budding, during which they acquire their envelope.

Examples[edit | edit source]

Examples of enveloped viruses include influenza viruses, HIV, herpes simplex viruses, and coronaviruses. These viruses cause a variety of diseases in humans and animals.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Enveloped virus Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD