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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
Protocol for Dengue Infections in Mosquitoes (A. aegypti) and Infection Phenotype Determination
Published on: July 5, 2007
Electron microscopic study of persistent dengue virus infection: analysis using a cell line persistently infected
T Takasaki1, K Takada, I Kurane
1Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan. takasaki@nih.go.jp
Abstract:
We investigated persistent infection of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-transformed lymphoblastoid cells with dengue virus using a transmission electron microscope. Most of the infected cells kept an intact morphology with only a few virus particles in the cytoplasm, but without any indication of active viral replication. Some cells were apoptotic and a few dengue virus particles were present in these apoptotic cells. Raji cells acutely infected with dengue-2 virus showed degenerative morphology. There were membranous tubular structures and many virus particles around and within the infected cells. Approximately 95% of the cells were dengue viral antigen positive in the persistently infected EBV-transformed cell line. It is likely that persistent infection is maintained mainly by the division of infected cells without cytopathic effect by dengue-2 virus.
Insights
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-transformed cells can be persistently infected with dengue virus. This persistent infection occurs without significant cell damage, suggesting replication through cell division.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common human herpesvirus.
- Dengue virus (DENV) causes significant global health burden.
- Understanding virus-host interactions is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics of persistent dengue virus infection in EBV-transformed lymphoblastoid cells.
- To determine the impact of persistent dengue infection on cell morphology and viral replication.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy was used to examine infected cells.
- Immunofluorescence assays were employed to detect viral antigens.
- Raji cells (EBV-transformed lymphoblastoid cells) were infected with dengue-2 virus.
Main Results:
- Most persistently infected cells maintained normal morphology with few intracellular virus particles, indicating limited active replication.
- Apoptotic cells contained some dengue virus particles.
- Acutely infected cells exhibited degenerative morphology with abundant virus particles.
- Approximately 95% of persistently infected cells were positive for dengue viral antigen.
Conclusions:
- Persistent dengue virus infection in EBV-transformed cells is characterized by minimal cytopathic effect.
- The infected cells likely maintain persistent infection through cell division.
- This model provides insights into potential mechanisms of persistent flavivirus infections.
