Final answer:
Viral spike proteins play a crucial role in virus infection by helping the virus attach to and enter host cells. In the case of the coronavirus, spike proteins allow the virus to infect host cells and replicate. Understanding the function of viral spike proteins has led to the development of vaccines that target these proteins to provide protection against viral infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The viral spike protein in the context of the question refers to the spike proteins found on the surface of viruses such as the coronavirus and HIV. These spike proteins play a crucial role in the viral infection process by helping the virus attach to and enter host cells. In the case of the coronavirus, the spike proteins are used to attach to the host cells' receptors, allowing the virus to infect the cells and replicate. Understanding the function of viral spike proteins has led to the development of vaccines that target these proteins, providing protection against viral infections.