From: Current challenges in different approaches to control COVID-19: a comprehensive review
Type of structural protein | Characteristics |
---|---|
Nucleocapsid protein (N) | N-protein coats the viral RNA genome which plays a vital role in its replication and transcription. It is responsible for encapsulating and protecting (+)-RNA, which contains the virus genome |
Spike protein (S) | Type I membrane glycoprotein is made of 1160–1400 amino acids S-protein facilitates viral entrance into the host cell by mediating receptor-binding and membrane fusion between the virus and the host cell |
Envelope protein (E) | E-protein is a tiny membrane protein with 76–109 amino acids that is a minor component of the viral particle. It is involved in virus assembly, host cell membrane permeability, and virus–host cell contact |
Membrane protein (M) | The M-protein is most prevalent on the viral surface and is thought to be the coronavirus's major organizer. It neutralizes the virus-specific antibodies that have formed inside the host cell Determines the shape of the viral envelope |
HE protein | The HE protein may have a role in viral entrance; it is not necessary for virus replication, but it appears to be important for natural host cell infection |