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Updated: Mar 6, 2026
Evaluation of Zika Virus-specific T-cell Responses in Immunoprivileged Organs of Infected Ifnar1-/- Mice
Published on: October 17, 2018
Zika virus induced cellular remodelling
Evan D Rossignol1, Kristen N Peters2, John H Connor2
1Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
Abstract:
Zika virus (ZIKV) has been associated with morbidities such as Guillain-Barré, infant microcephaly, and ocular disease. The spread of this positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus and its growing public health threat underscore gaps in our understanding of basic ZIKV virology. To advance knowledge of the virus replication cycle within mammalian cells, we use serial section 3-dimensional electron tomography to demonstrate the widespread remodelling of intracellular membranes upon infection with ZIKV. We report extensive structural rearrangements of the endoplasmic reticulum and reveal stages of the ZIKV viral replication cycle. Structures associated with RNA genome replication and virus assembly are observed integrated within the endoplasmic reticulum, and we show viruses in transit through the Golgi apparatus for viral maturation, and subsequent cellular egress. This study characterises in detail the 3-dimensional ultrastructural organisation of the ZIKV replication cycle stages. Our results show close adherence of the ZIKV replication cycle to the existing flavivirus replication paradigm.
Insights
Zika virus (ZIKV) infection remodels intracellular membranes, revealing its replication cycle within mammalian cells. This study details viral RNA replication, assembly, maturation, and egress, aligning with flavivirus replication models.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) causes severe morbidities like microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
- Understanding ZIKV replication is crucial due to its public health threat and knowledge gaps.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the ZIKV replication cycle in mammalian cells.
- To detail the 3D ultrastructural organization of ZIKV replication stages.
Main Methods:
- Serial section 3-dimensional electron tomography was employed.
- Infected mammalian cells were analyzed to visualize intracellular events.
Main Results:
- ZIKV infection causes extensive remodeling of intracellular membranes, particularly the endoplasmic reticulum.
- Structures for RNA replication and virus assembly were observed within the ER.
- Viruses were visualized in the Golgi apparatus, indicating maturation and egress.
Conclusions:
- The study provides detailed 3D ultrastructural insights into the ZIKV replication cycle.
- ZIKV replication closely follows the established flavivirus replication paradigm.
