Nucleocapsid

A nucleocapsid is the core part of a virus that carries its genetic material, typically RNA or DNA. It consists of the viral genetic material tightly wrapped in proteins called nucleocapsid proteins. This structure protects the genetic code from damage and helps deliver it into a host cell during infection. Think of it as the virus's "core package" containing important instructions for making new virus particles, shielded by a protective protein coat. The nucleocapsid plays a crucial role in the virus's ability to infect and reproduce within host cells.