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Cell surface changes observed in MC-29 virus-infected chicken-embryo fibroblast (CEC) cultures
Abstract:
By transmission and scanning electron microscopic studies of MC-29 virus-infected CEC cultures, C-type virus particles were detected in the medium of infected cultures, in infected cells and in intracellular vacuoles. Virus budding was also observed. In the scanning electron microscope (SEM) so-called blebs appeared on the surfaces of the infected cells, in a number proportional to the concentration of the virus preparation. On the basis of the size of the blebs, it could be considered that virus formation was taking place in their center. In control cells, neither viruses nor blebs were observed. This method will presumably be suitable for the titration of virus preparations.
Insights
Researchers used electron microscopy to observe C-type virus formation in MC-29 virus-infected cells. Scanning electron microscopy revealed cell surface blebs, indicating a potential new method for virus titration.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- C-type viruses are a class of retroviruses known to infect various cell types.
- Understanding virus replication and assembly is crucial for developing antiviral strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphology and formation of C-type virus particles in MC-29 virus-infected CEC cultures.
- To evaluate the potential of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for virus titration.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed.
- MC-29 virus-infected CEC cultures were analyzed for virus particle presence and budding.
- Cell surface structures, termed 'blebs,' were quantified in relation to virus concentration.
Main Results:
- C-type virus particles were identified extracellularly, intracellularly within vacuoles, and budding from infected cells.
- SEM revealed cell surface blebs on infected cells, with numbers correlating to virus concentration.
- No viruses or blebs were observed in control, uninfected cells.
Conclusions:
- The study visually confirmed C-type virus formation and budding in infected CEC cultures.
- SEM-detected blebs show promise as a quantifiable indicator for virus titration.
- This SEM-based approach may offer a novel method for assessing virus preparation concentrations.