CONSTITUENTS OF ELEMENTARY BODIES OF VACCINIA : IV. DEMONSTRATION OF COPPER IN THE PURIFIED VIRUS

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Biochemistry
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Purified elementary bodies of vaccinia virus were analyzed for enzymatic activity.
• Previous studies suggested the presence of respiratory enzymes in viruses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the enzymatic composition of vaccinia virus elementary bodies.
• To identify specific catalytic components within the virus structure.

Main Methods:

• Spectroscopic techniques were employed to analyze the virus composition.
• Enzymatic assays were performed to detect catalytic activity.
• Purification methods including washing, ultrafiltration, dialysis, and electrodialysis were utilized.

Main Results:

• Cytochrome and cytochrome oxidase were not detected in purified vaccinia virus elementary bodies.
• A copper constituent catalyzing cysteine oxidation was identified, comprising 0.05% of the virus's dry weight.
• This copper component was resistant to removal by extensive purification and dialysis procedures.
• A 25-fold increase in copper concentration was observed during virus purification.
• Emission spectra confirmed the presence of copper and the absence of other significant metallic substances.

Conclusions:

• Vaccinia virus elementary bodies contain a copper component with catalytic activity.
• This copper is integral to the virus structure and is not easily removed.
• The biological role of this copper component remains undetermined.