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Abstract:
MM virus (mouse-brain stock) replicated to a limited extent in L cells without cytopathic effects; the average yield was less than 1 plaque-forming unit/cell. Passage in BHK-21 cells resulted in MM virus [MM(BHK)] which replicated to high titers (200 to 300 plaque-forming units/cell) in L cells with complete cytopathic effects. Appearance of mature MM(BHK) virus in L-cell cultures begins 4 hr after infection and is completed by 8 hr. Release of mature virus was slow (less than 1% at 8 hr) but was completed by 24 hr.
Insights
Passaging MM virus in BHK-21 cells created a variant, MM(BHK), that replicates to high titers in L cells, causing significant cytopathic effects. This enhanced viral replication and cell damage were observed within hours of infection.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- MM virus from mouse-brain stock shows limited replication in L cells without observable cytopathic effects.
- Limited viral replication can hinder the study of viral pathogenesis and the development of antiviral strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of passage in BHK-21 cells on MM virus replication and cytopathogenicity in L cells.
- To characterize the replication kinetics and cytopathic effects of the modified MM virus (MM(BHK)).
Main Methods:
- MM virus was passaged in BHK-21 cells to generate a new viral stock, designated MM(BHK).
- Replication efficiency and cytopathic effects of both original MM virus and MM(BHK) were assessed in L cell cultures.
- Viral titers were determined using plaque-forming unit assays.
- The timeline for viral maturation and release in L cells was monitored.
Main Results:
- Passage in BHK-21 cells adapted MM virus to high-titer replication (200-300 PFU/cell) in L cells.
- The adapted MM(BHK) virus induced complete cytopathic effects in L cells.
- Viral maturation in L cells commenced at 4 hours post-infection and was complete by 8 hours.
- Virus release was slow, with completion by 24 hours post-infection.
Conclusions:
- Passage in BHK-21 cells significantly enhances MM virus replication and cytopathogenicity in L cells.
- MM(BHK) represents a valuable tool for studying viral replication mechanisms and host-cell interactions.
- The characterized replication kinetics provide insights into the life cycle of this adapted viral strain.