1. The complex of nucleic acid and protein that forms the core structural unit of a virus, consisting of the viral genome surrounded by a protein coat (capsid).
Usage: technical; virology; plural form of nucleocapsid

Examples

• The nucleocapsids of the virus were examined under an electron microscope.
• Researchers isolated the nucleocapsids to study their protein composition.
• The assembly of nucleocapsids is a critical step in viral replication.
• Different viruses produce nucleocapsids with distinct structural properties.
• The nucleocapsids were purified and analyzed for genetic material.