How to Make a 3 Dimensional Virus Cell
Viruses are agents that can cause infectious diseases such as the flu, hepatitis and ebola. The virus itself is not a cell, but invades cells in order to reproduce. Virus particles are called virions. Each type of virion features its own structure and characteristics. All types of virions comprise genetic material and the capsid, which is the outer shell of the virus enclosing the genetic material. Some viruses also feature an additional cover, called the envelope. The Human Hepatitis C particle is an uncomplicated example of a viral structure that can be used in biology projects or by teachers who want to introduce viruses to students through a three-dimensional model.
Instructions
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Mold clay with your your hands to create a sphere, measuring 2 inches in diameter. Use a carving knife to cut out one quarter of the sphere at a 90 degree angle. The sphere should now resemble the video game character "Pac-Man."
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2
Form two 1.5-inch long cylinders out of clay. The cylinders must be as thin as possible and feature an easily distinguishable color. Place the cylinders on the flat sides of the sphere to depict the virus' genetic material.
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3
Mold another sphere with your hands, measuring 5 inches in diameter. Use a distinct color of clay for this sphere. Cut out a quarter of the sphere at a right angle and gently place the 2-inch sphere directly on the right angle.
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4
Form several small spheres, using a fourth color of clay, to create the capsid proteins. The spheres must measure 1/3-inch and cover the flat sides of the large sphere and the surface of the small sphere.
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Form 1/3-inch diameter balls with the remaining color of clay and place them on the surface of the large sphere to add the envelope glycoproteins. Break toothpicks in half and use them to pierce through the glycoproteins and inside the envelope, to keep them firmly attached.
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