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Morphological observations of the replication of herpesvirus tamarinus in RL-33 cells
Abstract:
The replication in RL-33 cells (rabbit lung cell line) of herpesvirus tamarinus isolated from cotton-topped marmosets (Saguinus oedipus) was investigated by electron microscopy. In the early stages of infection, ring-shaped and granular structures, and fibrillar materials were recognized in the nucleus. Immature particles were often found in such nuclei. The envelope of the virus was formed by budding through intracytoplasmic membranes, the inner nuclear membrane or the membrane of intracytoplasmic vacuoles. Virus particles which appeared to be budding through the plasma membrane were also observed. Aberrant viral forms were produced by independent budding of both the inner and outer nuclear membranes. The mature particles once enveloped acquired a second envelope by budding through intracytoplasmic double membranes or the outer nuclear membrane. Unusual virus-associated structures were observed in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Virus particles appeared to be released by the process of reverse phagocytosis.
Insights
Herpesvirus tamarinus replicates in rabbit lung cells, forming mature viral particles through complex budding processes involving various cellular membranes. Virus release occurs via an unusual reverse phagocytosis mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Herpesvirus tamarinus is a virus isolated from cotton-topped marmosets.
- Understanding its replication is crucial for studying primate herpesviruses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the replication cycle of herpesvirus tamarinus in a rabbit lung cell line (RL-33).
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to observe viral replication in RL-33 cells.
Main Results:
- Early infection stages showed nuclear structures and immature viral particles.
- Viral envelope formation occurred via budding through intracytoplasmic and nuclear membranes.
- Aberrant viral forms and unusual virus-associated structures were observed.
- Mature virus particles acquired a second envelope through budding.
- Virus release appeared to involve reverse phagocytosis.
Conclusions:
- Herpesvirus tamarinus exhibits a complex replication strategy in RL-33 cells.
- The virus utilizes multiple cellular membranes for envelope acquisition and release.