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In vitro morphology and maturation of lymphocystis virus
Abstract:
The temporal sequence of development of lymphocystis disease virus (LDV) was studied by electron microscopy of thin sections of infected tissue-culture monolayers. Neither the typical cytoplasmic inclusion nor virus was detected at 4 days postinfection (PI). Inclusions, but no viruses, were detected at 8 days PI. Inclusions and associated virions were detected at 15 days PI, and by 28 days PI the undisrupted cells were filled with the typical virions. No release mechanism was detected, and severe clumping of particles was noted. Negatively stained preparations revealed particles 200 nm in diameter with no capsomere structure and apparent spikes associated with the particle. The relationship of LDV to the well-defined deoxyribonucleic acid virus groups is discussed.
Insights
Lymphocystis disease virus (LDV) development was observed using electron microscopy. Virus particles and inclusions appeared by 15 days postinfection, with cells filled by 28 days, but no release mechanism was found.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Aquatic Animal Health
Background:
- Lymphocystis disease is a common viral infection in fish.
- Understanding the replication cycle of lymphocystis disease virus (LDV) is crucial for disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the temporal sequence of LDV development in infected cell cultures.
- To characterize the morphology of LDV particles and their association with cellular inclusions.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy of thin sections of infected tissue-culture monolayers.
- Negative staining of viral particles.
Main Results:
- No virus or inclusions were observed at 4 days postinfection (PI).
- Inclusions appeared by 8 days PI, with both inclusions and virions detected at 15 days PI.
- Cells were filled with virions by 28 days PI; particles were 200 nm in diameter with spikes but no visible capsomeres. Severe clumping was noted, and no release mechanism was identified.
Conclusions:
- The study details the sequential development of LDV within host cells.
- LDV exhibits a distinct replication cycle characterized by inclusion body formation and particle aggregation.
- Further research is needed to clarify LDV's relationship to other DNA virus groups and its release mechanism.