A tangible and interactive viral model for enhancing virology education: using hepatitis B virus as a model system

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Biomedical Education
• 3D Modeling

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections present a global health challenge, necessitating effective virology education.
• Undergraduate students often struggle with the complex 3D structure of HBV and Hepatitis B Panel immunology using 2D materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a tangible, interactive, and cost-effective 3D model for teaching HBV.
• To enhance student comprehension of HBV pathogenesis, Dane particle structure, and diagnostic principles.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 3D printing, transparent acrylic, and magnetic elements to construct the model.
• Incorporated a magnet-enhanced design for ELISA principles (Sandwich and Competitive).
• Designed a bisected capsid and a dual-purpose base simulating host receptor interactions.

Main Results:

• The model provides a tactile experience of molecular interactions, improving visualization of HBV.
• It effectively demonstrates viral entry, therapeutic interventions, and diagnostic assay mechanisms.
• The biohazard-free model facilitates understanding of HBV pathogenesis and clinical diagnostics.

Conclusions:

• This 3D model bridges the educational gap in HBV virology and diagnostics.
• It offers a cost-effective and engaging tool to support global hepatitis testing and education efforts.
• Enhanced tactile learning improves student mastery of complex virological concepts.