Mouse Polyomavirus: Propagation, Purification, Quantification, and Storage

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Molecular Biology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Mouse polyomavirus (MPyV) belongs to the Polyomaviridae family, known for non-enveloped, tumorigenic viruses.
• MPyV virions exhibit icosahedral symmetry (T=7d) with a protein capsid enclosing a dsDNA genome complexed with histones.
• Despite varied pathogenicity, polyomaviruses share similar virion structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive unit on the propagation, purification, quantification, and storage of MPyV virions.
• To establish standardized protocols for handling MPyV for research purposes.
• To facilitate MPyV's use as a model virus in cell transformation, virus trafficking, and nanotechnology studies.

Main Methods:

• Propagation of MPyV in primary mouse cells or established cell lines (epithelial, fibroblast).
• Purification techniques to isolate MPyV virions.
• Quantification methods to determine viral particle concentration.
• Protocols for long-term storage of purified MPyV virions.

Main Results:

• Successfully established and validated methods for MPyV propagation in cell culture.
• Developed efficient purification strategies yielding high-purity MPyV virions.
• Implemented reliable quantification assays for accurate viral load determination.
• Defined optimal storage conditions ensuring MPyV stability and infectivity.

Conclusions:

• The presented unit offers a robust framework for working with MPyV in laboratory settings.
• Standardized protocols are crucial for reproducible research involving MPyV.
• These methods support the continued use of MPyV as a model system in virology and nanotechnology.