Abstract

In this study, a Monte Carlo simulation was designed to observe the self-assembly of the HIV-1 capsid protein. The simulation allowed a coarse grained model of the capsid protein with defined interaction sites to move freely in three dimensions using the Metropolis criterion. Observations were made as to which parameters affected the assembly the process. The ways in which the assembly were affected were also noted. It was found that proper dimerization of the capsid protein was necessary in order for the lattice to form properly. It was also found that a strong trimeric interface could be responsible for double-layered assemblies. Further studies may be conducted by further varying of parameters or reworking the dynamics of the simulation. The possible causes of curvature within the assembly still need to be researched further.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

2014

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Chen, Bo

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Physics

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Sciences; Sciences -- Dissertations, Academic

Format

PDF

Identifier

CFH0004618

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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Included in

Physics Commons

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