Replication of murine cytomegalovirus in murine Y-1 cells

Murine Y-1 cells, a continuous epithelial cell line derived from an adrenal adenocarcinoma, are highly susceptible to murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infection. Inoculation of these cells with MCMV results in production of infectious virus and is associated with development of both cytopathic changes and the expression of viral-specific nuclear and cytoplasmic antigens. Examination of the ultrastructure of infected Y-1 cells reveals MCMV in various stages of replication. Cytomegalovirus replication in this hormone-responsive epithelial cell line should provide a model system in which virus--host cell interactions and their effects on cellular metabolism can be studied.