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Electron microscopic study of the cytopathology of ECHO virus infection in cultivated cells
Abstract:
The cultivated monkey kidney cell is subject to changes when infected with ECHO viruses 6, 9, and 19. The electron microscope reveals three stages of infection: (a) initial stage. The nucleus appears granular with chromatin condensation on the nuclear envelope. The cytoplasm contains electron transparent vesicles and vacuoles forming nests. (b) Intermediate stage. The nucleus seems to diminish, appearing more pycnotic and displaced toward the periphery. The cytoplasm is filled with electron transparent vacuoles and vesicles, and dense masses as well as some spiral bodies are seen. The mitochondria retain their shape. Dense particles are seen, which are possibly of viral nature. (c) Final stage. The nucleus is contracted to a narrow strip close to the cellular membrane or is completely destroyed. The cytoplasm shows no apparent changes. Crystals are frequently observed in cells infected with ECHO viruses 6 and 19, consisting of dense particles with an average diameter of 14.4 mmicro ranging from approximately 13.2 to 15.6 mmicro for ECHO virus 6, and 14.5 mmicro ranging from approximately 12.5 to 16.5 mmicro for ECHO virus 19. These particles are clustered in hexagonal packages forming angles of 75 degrees and 105 degrees . The particles in most crystals are arranged in rows separated by a constant distance, the latter varying from one crystal to another and being approximately 1.5 and 2.5 times the distance between particles. Other particles were observed which, however, are not considered to be of viral nature.
Insights
ECHO viruses 6, 9, and 19 alter monkey kidney cells, causing distinct nuclear and cytoplasmic changes visible via electron microscopy. Viral crystals were observed in cells infected with ECHO viruses 6 and 19.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- ECHO viruses are known human pathogens.
- Monkey kidney cells are a common model for viral studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the cytopathic effects of ECHO viruses 6, 9, and 19 in cultivated monkey kidney cells.
- To describe the ultrastructural changes during viral infection using electron microscopy.
Main Methods:
- Cultivation of monkey kidney cells.
- Infection with ECHO viruses 6, 9, and 19.
- Transmission electron microscopy for ultrastructural analysis.
Main Results:
- Three distinct stages of infection were identified: initial, intermediate, and final.
- Nuclear alterations included chromatin condensation and displacement, progressing to destruction.
- Cytoplasmic changes involved vesicle and vacuole formation; dense particles, possibly viral, were observed.
- Crystalline arrays of dense particles (13.2-16.5 µm) were found in cells infected with ECHO viruses 6 and 19, arranged in hexagonal packages.
Conclusions:
- ECHO virus infection induces characteristic cytopathic effects in monkey kidney cells.
- Electron microscopy is crucial for visualizing viral morphogenesis and cytopathology.
- The formation of viral crystals provides insights into ECHO virus assembly and structure.
