A scanning electron microscopic study of SV40 infected cells

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Virology
• Microscopy

Background:

• African green monkey kidney (AGMK) cells are a common model for studying viral infections.
• Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a well-characterized DNA tumor virus with significant impact on cell morphology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To morphologically characterize the surface changes in AGMK cells following SV40 infection using scanning electron microscopy.
• To document the development of SV40-specific cytopathic effects (CPE) on the cell surface over time.

Main Methods:

• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to visualize the surface topography of SV40-infected AGMK cells.
• Cells were examined at various time points post-infection, specifically at 24 and 96 hours.

Main Results:

• At 24 hours post-infection, infected cells exhibited elongated microvilli.
• By 96 hours post-infection, significant SV40-induced CPE were observed, including nuclear swelling and increased microvilli density, particularly over nuclear regions.
• Cytoplasmic vacuolization and the presence of SV40 virions were noted in later stages.

Conclusions:

• SV40 infection induces distinct and progressive morphological alterations on the surface of AGMK cells.
• The observed changes, including microvilli elongation and increased density, are indicative of active viral replication and cellular response.
• SEM provides valuable insights into the cytopathic effects of SV40 at the cellular surface level.