Viruses under the Mathematical Microscope: Deciphering the Code of Viral Geometry

Explore virus architecture through a mathematical lens in this lecture by Professor Reidun Twarock from the University of York. Delve into the highly ordered protein containers of viruses like hepatitis and the common cold, understanding their role as Trojan horses in cellular hijacking. Discover how symmetry plays a crucial part in virus structure and learn how mathematical tools, similar to those used in studying Penrose tilings, provide new insights into viral evolution and infection mechanisms. Gain a deeper understanding of viral geometry and its implications for defeating these microscopic invaders in this 73-minute talk presented at the Cambridge Festival 2011.