What is the viral envelope composed of?

Explanation

The viral envelope is a lipid-based layer that surrounds some viruses, derived from the host cell's membrane during viral replication. It is not made entirely by the virus but is borrowed from the host, with embedded viral glycoproteins that protrude from its surface. These glycoproteins are crucial for the virus to recognize and attach to specific receptors on host cells, allowing entry and infection. The envelope also helps the virus evade the host immune system, as the host-derived lipids can mask viral components, making it less visible to immune defenses.