This is a 3D-printed physical model of SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. This model shows the viral surface (blue) and the spike proteins studded proportionally to the right size and shape. These proteins are essential for SARS-CoV-2 to attach to human cells and infect them. Here, the spike proteins are represented in their open, active form (orange) that’s capable of attaching to a human cell, as well as in their closed, inactive form (red).

Read about the NIH 3D Print Exchange efforts in the battle to combat COVID-19:

3D Printing the Novel Coronavirus

Visit the 3D Print Exchange:
https://www.niaid.nih.gov/research/nih-3d-print-exchange

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Credit: NIH