Protrusions on the surface of the virus about 20 nm long. These protrusions are formed by the S glycoprotein (from the word "spike"). Three S glycoproteins joined together form a trimer. The trimers of this protein create structures that resemble a crown surrounding the virion. The S glycoprotein determines the virus's specificity to the epithelial cells of the respiratory tract.

Crosses the envelope, interacting within the virion with the RNA-protein complex.

A surface glycoprotein (smaller than the S glycoprotein), plays an important role during the release phase of the virus inside the host cell.

The expression of this protein helps the S glycoprotein (and therefore the virus) attach to the target cell membrane.

This is the virus's envelope, consisting of a membrane that the virus "inherits" from the host cell after infection. The RNA and N-protein: The coronavirus genome consists of a single strand of RNA with large positive polarity (from 27 to 32 kilobase pairs in different viruses). No larger RNA viruses are known. The RNA produces 7 viral proteins and is associated with the N-protein, which increases its stability.

A single-stranded (+) RNA molecule approximately 30,000 nucleotides in length, serving as the genetic material of the virus. It can be used as a template for the synthesis of viral proteins and replication in the host cell. The genome includes genes that encode structural and non-structural proteins, which participate in replication and regulate host cellular processes. The RNA also contains unique sequences that contribute to its stability and the regulation of protein production, ensuring effective viral reproduction in the infected cell.

Binds to the viral RNA, forming a complex called the nucleocapsid. This protein participates in the replication and assembly processes of the virus inside the host cell.