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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Capsid and Capsomere?

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The capsid and capsomere are both components of a virus's protein shell, but they have different functions and structures. Here are the main differences between them:

  • Capsid: The capsid is the protein coat that surrounds and protects the viral genome, consisting of several oligomeric structural subunits made of protein called protomers. The capsid has multiple capsomeres arranged in a helical or polyhedral shape. Examples of viruses with capsids include bacteriophage, poliovirus, and adenovirus.
  • Capsomere: The capsomere is the smallest subunit of the capsid, and it self-assembles to form the capsid. Capsomeres are made from protomers, which are the morphological units of capsids and the structural subunits of the capsid. This structure protects the viral genome from physical, chemical, and enzymatic damages and is important in introducing a viral genome into hosts.

In summary, the capsid is the protein coat that protects the viral genome, while the capsomere is a subunit of the capsid that self-assembles to form the capsid. Both structures are crucial for the protection and function of the viral genome.

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  • What is the Difference Between Capsid and Capsomere?
  • Comparative Table: Capsid vs Capsomere

    • Comparative Table: Capsid vs Capsomere

    Here is a table comparing the differences between capsid and capsomere:

    Feature Capsid Capsomere
    Definition The capsid is the protein shell that surrounds the genetic material of the virus, protecting it from the environment. A capsomere is the basic morphological subunit of the viral capsid, made up of several oligomeric repeating structural subunits called protomers.
    Function The main function of the capsid is to protect the viral genome. The main function of the capsomere is to make the capsid.
    Composition The capsid is composed of protein subunits called protomers. Capsomeres are made up of several oligomeric repeating structural subunits called protomers.
    Arrangement Many capsomeres are present in one capsid, and they self-assemble to form the capsid. Every three-helix turns of a capsomere, there are 49 capsomeres.
    Examples Bacteriophage, Poliovirus, and Adenovirus. Pentamers and hexamers.
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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.