The Shapes Of Viruses
Explore The Different Shapes Of Viruses!
The Shape Of A Virus Varies Depending On What Kind Of Virus It Is
Viruses come in three main shapes:
Helical
Polyhedral
Complex
These Are The Main Shapes Of Viruses
In addition, there are also many other shapes and sizes of viruses.
The Different Shapes
Helical
A virus cell with a helical shape typically has protein subunits that surround the RNA within it, which (as seen in the picture) is in a spiral shape. A good example of a virus cell with a helical shape would be tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) cell.
Complex
A virus cell with a complex shape typical has a capsid (which protects the core of the cell), and within the capsid is the DNA of the cell. A complex cell has a unique shape and appearance. A good example of a virus cell with a complex shape would be a bacteriophage cell.
Polyhedral
A virus cell with a polyhedral shape typically has a capsid surrounding the core, which is made up of many capsomeres. The core of the cell contains the DNA or RNA of the cell. The layout and appearance of a polyhedral virus cell (with the exception of the shape) may also look similar to that of a helical virus cell. A good example of a virus cell with a polyhedral shape would be an adenovirus cell.