capsid

¹ American  

[kap-sid] / ˈkæp sɪd /

noun

Microbiology.

1. the coiled or polyhedral structure, composed of proteins, that encloses the nucleic acid of a virus.

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capsid ² American  

[kap-sid] / ˈkæp sɪd /

noun

1. plant bug.

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capsid ¹ British  

/ ˈkæpsɪd /

noun

1. the outer protein coat of a mature virus

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capsid ² British  

/ ˈkæpsɪd /

noun

1. any heteropterous bug of the family Miridae (formerly Capsidae ), most of which feed on plant tissues, causing damage to crops

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capsid Scientific  

/ kăp′sĭd /

1. The protein shell that surrounds a virus particle (known as a virion).

2. See more at virus

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Etymology

Origin of capsid¹

1960–65; < French capside, equivalent to Latin caps ( a ) case ² + -ide -id ¹

Origin of capsid²

< New Latin Capsidae, equivalent to Caps ( us ) a genus (said to have been formed on Greek kápsis a gulping down; káp ( tein ) to gulp down + -sis -sis ) + -idae -id ²

Example Sentences

Our language model also identified a novel viral capsid protein that is widespread in the global oceans.

From Salon • May 17, 2024

The simulations did reveal common structural features and defects, particularly at the edges and corners of the capsid, where its shape has the greatest influence on the DNA inside.

From Science Daily • Mar. 7, 2024

They found that the DNA formed switchback loops as it was pushed into the capsid, an important finding as it is similar to how DNA is organized in eukaryotic cells.

From Science Daily • Mar. 7, 2024

Once the pore is open enough, the capsid is elastic enough to squeeze through.

From Science Daily • Jan. 25, 2024

Importantly, the scientists said, both the structural flexibility of the capsid and the pore itself play a role in the infiltration process.

From Science Daily • Jan. 25, 2024