Effect of enzymes on rotavirus infectivity

The infectivity of a bovine rotavirus was enhanced 140-, 8-, and 3-fold, respectively, by trypsin, protease, and lactase. Ficin, carboxypeptidases A and B, lysozyme, and beta-galactosidase had little effect on the infectivity. Chymotrypsin caused a threefold decrease in the infectivity. Trypsin acts directly on the rotavirus and not on the host cell.