Virology from the perspective of theoretical colloid and interface science

Area of Science:

• Colloid and interface science
• Biophysics
• Virology

Background:

• Viral infections involve diverse processes occurring across various length and time scales.
• Understanding viral transmission, replication, and cellular interactions is crucial, especially in light of recent pandemics like COVID-19.
• Existing models from colloid and interface science offer a framework for studying these viral phenomena.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss models relevant to viral transmission via respiratory droplets and virion-epithelium contact.
• To outline models for virion penetration of cellular membranes, viral genome replication, and capsid formation.
• To explore models applicable to novel drug delivery systems, such as lipid nanoparticles.

Main Methods:

• Application of colloid and interface science principles to model viral processes.
• Theoretical analysis of viral transmission dynamics.
• Modeling of virion-cell interactions and intracellular replication stages.

Main Results:

• Models can describe viral transmission through respiratory droplets and contact with epithelial surfaces.
• Theoretical frameworks exist for virion entry into cells, genome replication, and capsid assembly.
• Models are relevant for understanding nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems (e.g., lipid nanoparticles).

Conclusions:

• Colloid and interface science provides valuable models for understanding viral infection dynamics.
• Despite current interest, a comprehensive theoretical understanding of these viral processes remains limited.
• This field presents opportunities for new theoretical research and model development.