A "virus capsid" refers to the protein coat that surrounds and protects the genetic material (DNA or RNA) inside a virus. It is like a shell that keeps the virus intact and helps it survive. Full definition
The interface between hepatitis B virus capsid proteins affects self - assembly, pregenomic RNA packaging, and reverse transcription. (morgridge.org)
Last year, I met someone who sells science - themed fashion accessories, like cufflinks engraved with pictures of virus capsids. (sciencemag.org)
Using single particle cryo - electron microscopy, the team showed for the first time that the recombinant shell nanoparticles produced by plants were different from the natural virus capsid. (sciencedaily.com)