A series of 3D models of the hepatitis C virus (HCV), a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus which causes inflammation, scarring, and eventual cirrhosis of the liver. The viral RNA is contained in an icosahedral protein shell, surrounded by a lipid (fatty) envelope containing glycoproteins embedded on its surface. The hepatitis C virus is classified into seven genotypes and further divided into several subtypes and quasispecies, making it difficult to create an effective vaccine to combat all forms of the virus.