Oral: A Study on Capsid Morphology With Multi-types of Proteins

Viral capsids are protein shells that facilitate virus infection and protect genomic material, aiding in reproduction. Studies on virus assembly have highlighted the importance of the mechanical properties of building blocks in determining capsid morphology. However, the mechanisms involving multi-types of proteins remain poorly understood. In this study, we use Monte Carlo simulations to investigate the optimal morphologies of capsids formed by two or three types of building units. By minimizing elastic energy, we demostrate that the heterogeneous mechanical properties of subunits can regulate protein arrangement and capsid stability. Our work aims to elusidate the strategies viral capsids have evolved to achieve both stability for protection and flexibility for immune evasion, with the hope of informing future treatments.