Question

The viral capsid ________.

1) engulfs the viral spikes
2) surrounds the viral matrix protein
3) becomes completely enclosed by the region of the cell membrane into which the spikes and matrix protein are embedded
4) is dissolved

Answer 1

The viral capsid is the protein shell that encloses the genetic material of a virus. It can have different shapes such as icosahedral and helical, and some viruses have an enveloped capsid surrounded by a viral envelope. The viral spikes and matrix proteins are embedded in the viral envelope, and they help with attachment and stabilization of the virus.

Step-by-step explanation:

The viral capsid is the protein shell that encloses the genetic material of a virus. It determines the shape of the virus and provides protection for the genetic material inside.

The capsid can take on different shapes depending on the type of virus. Some viruses have an icosahedral capsid, which is roughly spherical. Others have a helical capsid, which is long and cylindrical. Some viruses also have an enveloped capsid, which means it is surrounded by a viral envelope made up of portions of the host cell membrane.

In the case of enveloped viruses, the capsid is completely enclosed by the viral envelope, which also contains viral spikes and matrix proteins. The viral spikes help the virus attach to host cells by binding to specific receptors, while the matrix proteins help stabilize the shape of the virus.