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Intranuclear crystal formation in picornavirus-infected cells
Archives of Virology
|January 1, 1978
Summary
Low temperatures induce the formation of incomplete picornaviruses in cell nuclei. This study reveals intranuclear crystals of immature echovirus and poliovirus, suggesting a common low-temperature viral assembly mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Picornaviruses, including echovirus and poliovirus, are known human pathogens.
- Viral replication typically occurs in the cytoplasm of host cells.
- The precise mechanisms and locations of viral assembly can vary depending on the virus and conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of suboptimal temperatures on echovirus and poliovirus replication.
- To identify the location and composition of viral structures formed under these conditions.
- To explore potential intranuclear synthesis of viral components.
Main Methods:
- Infection of cells with echovirus or poliovirus.
- Incubation of infected cells at a suboptimal temperature (28°C).
- Examination using electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, and autoradiography.
Main Results:
- Crystalline arrays of mature virus particles were observed in the cytoplasm.
- Crystals of immature virus-like particles were found in the nucleus.
- Viral proteins and RNA were detected within the nucleus, indicating intranuclear synthesis.
Conclusions:
- Intranuclear crystals are composed of incomplete picornavirus particles.
- Low-temperature-induced crystal formation in the nucleus is a potential characteristic of picornaviruses.
- The findings suggest intranuclear synthesis of viral constituents, challenging traditional models of picornavirus replication.