Spike Protein Function in Coronavirus Envelope
Spike protein can be found within coronavirus envelopes and is an integral part of the virus’s life cycle. It is responsible for facilitating the attachment of the virus to the host cell, allowing for the virus to enter and begin replicating (Chávez-Olórtegui et al., 2020). It is comprised of the receptor-binding domain, (RBD), as well as a fusion protein. RBD is responsible to binding to host cells receptors, and fusion peptide for the fusion between the virus’ and host cell membranes. (von Brunn, et al. (2018) After the Spike protein attaches to the receptor on the cell, the virus can enter the host cell to replicate its genetic material. The replication process includes the creation of new proteins and the release of virus particles. The Spike protein is a key component of the coronavirus’ life cycle (Ding and al., 2002).
Spike proteins can also help to detect the virus before it gets into the body. Vaccines targeting the Spike proteins have been made that stimulate the immune system and produce antibodies to it. This method has proved to be effective against the disease. Cont…