SARS-CoV-2 (half virion)
Description
This is a detailed scale model of the virus particle of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. This model shows both internal and external features of the virus particle. Like all viruses, SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted by infectious particles. These are roughly spherical, and around 120 nm (about a ten thousandth of a millimeter) across. The external features explain a lot about the virus. The membrane covering the surface can be disrupted by alchohol and detergents, which helps us to control the virus. The spikes on the surface let the virus bind to new cells. Mutations in the spike proteins allowed the animal ancestors of SARS-CoV-2 to adapt to infecting humans. Antibodies that bind to the spikes stop the virus entering cells and protect us from infection. COVID vaccines train our body to produce antibodies that recognise the spikes, and mutations in the spike proteins may require us to update the vaccines in the future. The internal features of the virus show what it is carrying into our cells. Beneath the membrane, which is studded with viral membrane and envelope proteins, is the coiled mass of the viral genome. This contains the instructions that the virus will use to take over our cells and turn them into factories for producing more viruses. The viral genome consists of a long strand of RNA, wrapped up with lots of copies of viral nucleoprotein. Although the spike proteins are the most important targets for antibodies, the presence of these other viral proteins in infected cells may be detected by immune cells called T cells. The viral genome, and RNA copies of it made during viral replication, are detected by PCR tests. Original Model: Annabel Slater (http://www.scientart.com/) 3D print file: Rian Mac Donnchadha (Twitter @Ryanemm) Scientific Advisor: Ed Hutchinson (MRC-CVR)
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