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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
Alphavirus Transducing System: Tools for Visualizing Infection in Mosquito Vectors
Published on: November 24, 2010
Alphavirus adsorption to mosquito cells as viewed by freeze fracture immunolabeling
Joseph P Kononchik1, Ricardo Vancini, Dennis T Brown
1Department of Molecular and Structural Biochemistry, NC State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA.
Abstract:
Sindbis Virus (SV), the prototype alphavirus in the family togaviridae, infects both mammalian and insect cells. The ability of SV to infect cells possessing significantly different biochemical environments suggests that there may be a common mode of entry into each cell type. Previous studies show that up to 4h post infection cells are permeable to small ions and alpha sarcin suggesting that the plasma membrane is compromised as infection takes place. Thin-section electron microscopy has also shown SV to bind to the plasma membrane and lose its electron dense core through a pore like structure developed upon interaction of the virus with the cell surface. Using freeze-fracture replicas, thin-sections and antibody labeling the data presented herein show virus associated with intramembrane particles on mosquito cells. These data suggest that the intramembrane particles associated with SV may be part of the pore structure consisting of virus proteins and cell receptor.
Insights
Sindbis virus (SV) entry into cells involves a pore structure. This structure appears to utilize intramembrane particles on mosquito cells, suggesting a common viral entry mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Membrane Biology
Background:
- Sindbis virus (SV), a prototype alphavirus, infects diverse cell types, including mammalian and insect cells.
- Previous research indicates compromised plasma membrane permeability and pore-like structures during SV infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the common entry mechanism of Sindbis virus into different cell types.
- To elucidate the role of cell surface structures in Sindbis virus entry.
Main Methods:
- Utilized freeze-fracture replicas and thin-section electron microscopy.
- Employed antibody labeling techniques.
- Examined virus interaction with mosquito cells.
Main Results:
- Observed Sindbis virus associated with intramembrane particles on mosquito cells.
- Data suggests these particles may form a pore structure during viral entry.
Conclusions:
- Sindbis virus entry likely involves a common pore structure facilitated by virus proteins and cellular receptors.
- Intramembrane particles on mosquito cells are implicated as components of this viral entry pore.
