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Updated: Sep 7, 2026
A Detailed Protocol for Characterizing the Murine C1498 Cell Line and its Associated Leukemia Mouse Model
Published on: October 14, 2016
Further electron microscope studies of a mouse leukemia induced by cell-free filtrates
Abstract:
Further electron microscope observations of tissues from Swiss and DBA/2 mice with leukemia transmissible by cell-free filtrates to the adult animals are presented. The cytological characteristics of the leukemic cells, the fine structure of the viruses, and the virus host-cell relationships have been examined. The leukemia virus has an external diameter averaging 870 A, and appears to be formed at the level of cell membranes by a budding process. The viruses are observed most frequently in intercellular spaces, but are also often found within cytoplasmic vacuoles of megakaryocytes. Lead hydroxide staining was applied to the study of the leukemic material. The viruses have been found to have a considerable affinity for this lead salt, only comparable in intensity to the affinity shown by RNP granules for the same chemical.
Insights
This study details leukemia virus formation in mice using electron microscopy. Researchers observed viruses budding from cell membranes and their affinity for lead hydroxide staining.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Leukemia is a complex disease involving abnormal cell proliferation.
- Understanding viral mechanisms in leukemia is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
- Previous studies have indicated a viral role in certain types of leukemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the fine structure and formation of leukemia viruses in mice.
- To examine the relationship between the leukemia virus and host cells.
- To characterize the cytological features of leukemic cells.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to observe leukemia tissues from Swiss and DBA/2 mice.
- Cell-free filtrates were used to transmit leukemia to adult animals.
- Lead hydroxide staining was applied to visualize viral structures and their interactions.
Main Results:
- Leukemia viruses were observed with an average external diameter of 870 A.
- Virus formation occurred via a budding process at the cell membrane level.
- Viruses were frequently found in intercellular spaces and within megakaryocyte vacuoles.
- A high affinity of leukemia viruses for lead hydroxide stain was noted.
Conclusions:
- The study provides detailed ultrastructural evidence of leukemia virus formation in mice.
- The findings elucidate virus-host cell interactions at the ultrastructural level.
- The observed affinity for lead hydroxide staining offers a potential method for further viral characterization.
