Biology of the Coronavirus

By Marianne Bird

What we now know as Covid-19, the pandemic that is currently sweeping though our nation, is classified under the Coronaviridae family of viruses. Corona, meaning crown, refers to the spike proteins on the glycoprotein outer layer of the virus that are what allow for the attachment and entrance of the virus to the host. The spike protein (S) penetrates and binds to receptors in the cell membrane, from there S protein creates an envelope fusion with the cell membrane and releases RNA into the cell. The virus then causes the rough endoplasmic reticulum to replicate the virus and golgi to transport it out of the cell.

There are hundreds of Coronavirus that circulate in animals but there are three that have been transmitted to humans. Contamination likely originated from live animal markets, the latest one, Covid 19, has proven to be wildly contagious.  Although the virus can remain stable on some surfaces, like plastic and steel for up to 3 days, it is mainly spread through the air. In humans, Covid-19 causes mild to severe respiratory illness that looks similar to pneumonia, causing fever, cough and shortness of breath. Some cases are very mild and in others it is fatal. It is believed to be transmissible before the onset of symptoms, which is why one means of prevention is the Shelter in Place order that is now in effect in Minnesota. Other means of prevention is strict hygiene practices like regular use of sanitizing and disinfecting cleaners, frequently washing hands, avoiding touching the face particularly, mucus membrane areas, wearing a face mask, covering sneezes and coughs, and avoiding contact with people by maintaining 6 foot social distancing. 

Works sited:

https://www.niaid.nih.gov/diseases-conditions/coronaviruses

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41564-020-0695-z

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2090123220300540