capsid

Thân thiện

The scientist examines the viral capsid under an electron microscope.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • The outer protein shell of a virus: A capsid is the protective coat that encloses and protects the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of a virus particle.
   • A type of insect: A capsid is also a common name for various small, plant-feeding bugs, particularly in the family Miridae.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Virus Structure):
  • The viral capsid is composed of many identical protein subunits.
  • Scientists are studying the capsid structure to develop new antiviral drugs.
• Noun (Insect):
  • The green capsid is a common pest in apple orchards.
  • Damage from capsid bugs often appears as distorted leaves and shoots.

Advanced Usage

• "Capsid assembly": The process by which viral proteins self-organize to form the protective structure.
  • Understanding capsid assembly is crucial for virology.
• "Capsid integrity": Refers to the wholeness and stability of the viral protein shell.
  • The disinfectant works by disrupting the capsid integrity.

Variants and Related Words

• Nucleocapsid (n): The structure formed by a virus's genetic material (genome) enclosed within its .
• Capsomeric (adj): Relating to the individual protein subunits (capsomeres) that make up a .

Synonyms

• Viral coat: Another term for the protein shell of a virus.
• Virion shell: The outer structure of a complete, infectious virus particle.
• Leaf bug / Plant bug: Common names for insects also called .

Notes on Different Meanings

The two primary meanings of capsid belong to completely different scientific fields (virology and entomology). The context makes the intended meaning clear: * In biology, medicine, or discussions about viruses, capsid always refers to the viral protein shell. * In agriculture, gardening, or entomology, capsid refers to a type of small, sap-sucking insect.

Học thuật

Noun

1. the outer covering of protein surrounding the nucleic acid of a virus
2. a variety of leaf bug

Từ đồng nghĩa

• mirid bug
• mirid