HIV Capsid Paper Model
Viruses come in many shapes and sizes, from simple protein shells filled with RNA or DNA to membrane-enveloped particles that rival cells in complexity. HIV is one of these complex viruses, surrounded by a membrane and filled with a diverse collection of viral and cellular molecules.
The genome of HIV, which is composed of two strands of RNA, is packaged inside a distinctive cone-shaped capsid, which protects the RNA and delivers it to the cells that HIV infects.
To build this paper model of HIV capsid, download and print the template PDF. Instructions for cutting and assembling are included.
Video: How to fold the HIV capsid paper model
Use the PDB-101 Browser to explore more resources and articles about HIV and AIDS.
References
PDB structure: 3j3q
Mature HIV-1 capsid structure by cryo-electron microscopy and all-atom molecular dynamics
G. Zhao, J.R. Perilla, E.L. Yufenyuy, X. Meng, B. Chen, J. Ning, J. Ahn, A.M. Gronenborn, K. Schulten, C. Aiken, P. Zhang
(2013) Nature 497: 643–646
Molecule of the Month: HIV Capsid
doi: 10.2210/rcsb_pdb/mom_2013_7
