Structure of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Basic Structural Components


  • The HIV type-1 belongs to the Family Retroviridae and consists of two basic components: a core of nucleic acid, called the genome, and a protein component that surrounds the genome, called a capsid.
  • The genome carries the genetic information of the virus, while the capsid gives the virus its shape and protects the genome.
  • The capsid is made up of subunits called capsomeres.

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