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Association of foot-and-mouth disease virus induced RNA polymerase with host cell organelles
Abstract:
The localization of foot-and-mouth disease viral-induced RNA polymerase has been determined in situ and in partially fractionated cell components by using polymerase antisera tagged with either peroxidase or ferritin. Electron microscopic examination revealed the polymerase to be heavily concentrated on membranes of the smooth membranous vacuoles (SMV) which are newly formed during infection and which were previously shown to be the site where newly synthesized viral RNA appeared. Polymerase antigen was also seen to be associated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the assumed site of original synthesis, and to a lesser extent with mitochondria and the Golgi apparatus. There was no significant polymerase attachment to nuclear and plasma membranes.
Insights
Foot-and-mouth disease virus RNA polymerase localizes to smooth membranous vacuoles (SMV) during infection. This finding reveals the specific cellular sites of viral RNA synthesis and polymerase activity.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is a significant pathogen affecting livestock.
- Understanding viral replication mechanisms is crucial for developing antiviral strategies.
- The precise cellular localization of viral RNA polymerase dictates viral RNA synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the in situ localization of the FMDV-induced RNA polymerase.
- To identify the specific cellular compartments involved in viral RNA synthesis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized immunoelectron microscopy with antibodies against viral RNA polymerase.
- Employed peroxidase and ferritin tags for high-resolution visualization.
- Examined both intact cells and partially fractionated cellular components.
Main Results:
- Viral RNA polymerase was predominantly found on the membranes of smooth membranous vacuoles (SMV).
- SMVs are newly formed during infection and are sites of viral RNA synthesis.
- Polymerase antigen was also associated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), mitochondria, and Golgi apparatus.
- No significant polymerase attachment was observed on nuclear or plasma membranes.
Conclusions:
- The smooth membranous vacuoles (SMV) are the primary sites for FMDV RNA polymerase activity and viral RNA synthesis.
- Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) may be involved in the initial synthesis or transport of the polymerase.
- This localization provides key insights into the replication cycle of FMDV.