Oxford scientists watch virus particles assemble one molecule at a time

University of Oxford researchers used mass photometry to observe a 60-protein virus-like particle assembling molecule by molecule. Weak initial bonds let failed arrangements break apart, while the first stable pentagonal ring of five blocks sharply speeds up growth. The Nature findings could inform new antiviral drugs and vaccines.

• A 60-protein particle was tracked in real time using mass photometry
• The first stable ring of five blocks acts as a key assembly checkpoint
• Weak early bonds let molecules make mistakes and retry
• Results published in Nature could guide antiviral drugs and vaccines