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SEM observations on Sendai virus-induced fusion of embryonic mouse erythroblasts
Abstract:
The events of fusion of 11- and 16-day embryonic mouse liver erythroblasts induced by Sendai virus (SV) were followed with the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Erythroid precursors incubated with the virus showed numerous 'pores' on the cell membrane. The cell fusion began with the appearance of a fine 'meshwork' structure between the adjacent cells, followed by a gradual formation of a common cell membrane and terminated with the appearance of polykaryons, in which the nuclei were easily recognized when located in the vicinity of the polykaryon membrane. There was no difference in the process of fusion between erythroblasts at identical and those at different stages of maturation.
Insights
Sendai virus (SV) induced fusion of mouse liver erythroblasts. Scanning electron microscopy revealed cell membrane pores and meshwork formation leading to polykaryons, regardless of erythroblast maturation stage.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Virology
Background:
- Erythroblasts are precursors to red blood cells.
- Cell fusion is a critical process in development and disease.
- Sendai virus (SV) is known to induce cell fusion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the fusion process of embryonic mouse liver erythroblasts induced by Sendai virus (SV).
- To characterize the morphological changes during virus-induced cell fusion using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Main Methods:
- Utilized scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to observe erythroblast fusion.
- Incubated 11- and 16-day embryonic mouse liver erythroblasts with Sendai virus (SV).
- Documented morphological alterations of cell membranes and nuclear arrangements during fusion.
Main Results:
- Sendai virus (SV) induced the formation of pores on erythroblast cell membranes.
- Fusion initiated with a meshwork structure between adjacent cells.
- Progressive formation of a common cell membrane resulted in polykaryons with visible nuclei.
Conclusions:
- Sendai virus (SV) effectively induces fusion in embryonic mouse liver erythroblasts.
- The fusion process involves distinct morphological stages: pore formation, meshwork development, and polykaryon generation.
- Erythroblast maturation stage did not influence the observed fusion process.