Cell microfilaments disorganization is an early cytopathic effect in mengo virus replication

The effect of mengo virus replication on cell morphology and cytoskeletal organization has been studied in LW murine fibroblasts. Cell modifications were followed by scanning electron microscopy. The cytoskeleton was stained by immunofluorescence using antitubulin antibodies for microtubules, antivimentin antibodies for intermediate filaments and rhodamine-conjugated phalloidin for microfilaments. Cytopathic effects began in the early phase of virus infection amd were correlated with broad modifications of the microfilament network. Immunofluorescence experiments showed a rapid decrease in the number of bundles and clumps of filaments in the early stages of infection. Antibodies to tubulin and vimentin revealed no change in the pattern of microtubules and intermediate filaments. Viral protein synthesis was required for the morphological changes observed after viral infection.