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The role of the nucleus in the replication of measles virus
Abstract:
The replication of measles and SSPE viruses in enucleate BSC-1 cells was measured by plaque assay, and the synthesis of virus-specific antigen was measured by indirect immunofluorescence. Titres of infectious virus produced in enucleate cells at 24 hours post inoculation (p.i.) were consistently 100-fold less, and the number of enucleate cells containing virus antigen at 30 hours p.i. was 10-fold less, than in nucleate control cultures. Enucleate cells at this time had 30% of the protein synthetic capacity of control nucleate cells, and supported the growth of Semliki Forest virus to titres equivalent to nucleate cell production.
Insights
Measles and SSPE virus replication is significantly reduced in enucleate cells, impacting viral antigen synthesis. These findings highlight the nucleus
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The nucleus plays a critical role in cellular processes, including viral replication.
- Understanding the nucleus's contribution to viral replication is essential for developing antiviral strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the nucleus in measles and SSPE virus replication.
- To quantify the impact of enucleation on virus production and antigen synthesis.
Main Methods:
- Enucleate BSC-1 cells were used to study measles and SSPE virus replication.
- Plaque assays measured infectious virus titers.
- Indirect immunofluorescence assessed virus-specific antigen synthesis.
Main Results:
- Enucleate cells produced 100-fold less infectious measles and SSPE virus compared to nucleate controls.
- Virus antigen synthesis was 10-fold lower in enucleate cells.
- Enucleate cells retained 30% of protein synthesis capacity and supported Semliki Forest virus growth.
Conclusions:
- The nucleus is crucial for efficient measles and SSPE virus replication and antigen production.
- While protein synthesis is reduced, it is not the sole factor limiting viral replication in enucleate cells.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the specific nuclear functions essential for these viruses.