Template:Virus glossary

Virus glossary
Virion A single, virus particle outside its host cell, it can be defective and non-infectious
Capsid The protein shell surrounding the virus's genes; this shell is made from many smaller proteins which are identical and are called capsomers.
Envelope Some viruses have a bubble of fat that surrounds the virion.
Gene A segment of DNA or RNA; genes are like sentences made of the "letters" of the nucleotide alphabet. Genes direct the reproduction of viruses. Different types of viruses have genes made from DNA or RNA but not both.
Host range The animals, plants or bacteria that any one type of virus can infect.
Bacteriophages The viruses that reproduce in bacteria.
Cell tropism The type of cell in which a virus can reproduce.
Serotype A grouping of viruses based on the antigens on the surface of virus.
Symmetry All viruses of a type are identical and their particles have a cubical, helical or complex structure.
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