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Cellular changes in tissues of newborn mice infected with Mokola virus: ultrastructural and biochemical changes
Abstract:
Cellular and biochemical changes which occurred in the tissues of newborn mice infected with Mokola virus, a rabies-related virus (rhabdovirus group), were described. The virus was transmitted along the peripheral nerves and appeared in various tissues of the body, but did not replicate in any except the nervous system, where it manifested its gross effects. While Mokola virus increased the synthesis of glycogen and total protein in infected brain, liver, lung, spleen and heart, it reduced the activity of monoamine oxidase in the brain. Virus multiplication occurred in the normal rough endoplasmic reticulum. During virus reproduction the membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complex and mitochondria were destroyed and replaced by a viral matrix. Virus maturation also occurred within the rough endoplasmic reticulum.
Insights
Mokola virus, a rabies-related virus, infects the nervous system of newborn mice, increasing glycogen and protein synthesis while decreasing brain monoamine oxidase. Virus replication and maturation occur within the endoplasmic reticulum.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cellular Biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Mokola virus is a rhabdovirus related to rabies virus.
- Understanding its pathogenesis is crucial for public health.
- Previous studies have not fully elucidated its cellular and biochemical effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the cellular and biochemical changes in newborn mice infected with Mokola virus.
- To investigate the replication and maturation sites of Mokola virus within host cells.
- To determine the impact of Mokola virus infection on specific biochemical pathways.
Main Methods:
- Infection of newborn mice with Mokola virus.
- Histological and biochemical analysis of infected tissues (brain, liver, lung, spleen, heart).
- Electron microscopy to visualize viral replication and cellular changes.
Main Results:
- Mokola virus spread via peripheral nerves but primarily replicated in the nervous system.
- Increased synthesis of glycogen and total protein in infected brain, liver, lung, spleen, and heart.
- Reduced monoamine oxidase activity observed specifically in the brain.
- Viral multiplication, membrane destruction, and maturation occurred within the rough endoplasmic reticulum.
Conclusions:
- Mokola virus exhibits neurotropism and affects host cell biochemistry.
- The endoplasmic reticulum serves as the primary site for Mokola virus replication and maturation.
- These findings provide insights into the pathogenesis of rabies-related viruses.