Chapter 6 - SARS-CoV-2 viral structure and genetics

ABSTRACT

Severe acute respiratory distress syndrome coronavirus 2 or CoV2 emerged in 2019 and is responsible for the ongoing worldwide pandemic. There are multiple ongoing vaccine and treatment trials to decrease transmission, confer protection against infection, and improve patient's clinical course including morbidity and mortality. This can only be possible with a detailed understanding of the molecular structure and genomics of this particular virus to better identify possible targets. In this chapter, I have highlighted pertinent details of the viral structure, genetic expression, various immune interactions, and specific host evading viral defenses with emphasis on possible targets for above.