Why do viral shapes change?
Shape changes based on protein makeup
Viral shapes may change to adapt to different host cells or to evade the host’s immune system response. The shape of a virus is determined by its protein coat, which can be modified through genetic mutations or recombination with other viruses. These changes can alter the virus’s ability to infect host cells or interact with antibodies produced by the host’s immune system. Viruses with more infectious shapes or shapes that are less recognizable by the immune system are more likely to survive and spread. This is why viral shape changes are often associated with emerging new viral diseases, such as COVID-19, influenza, or HIV. Understanding the mechanisms of viral shape changes is essential for developing therapies and vaccines to combat viral infections.
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