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Entry of mouse hepatitis virus 3 into cells
The Journal of General Virology
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Mouse hepatitis virus 3 (MHV3) uses lysosomes for infection. Inhibiting lysosomal function with weak bases blocked MHV3 replication, indicating lysosomes are crucial for viral genome release into the cytoplasm.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Lysosomes are key organelles involved in cellular degradation and pathogen processing.
- Mouse hepatitis virus 3 (MHV3) is a significant pathogen causing disease in mice.
- Understanding viral entry mechanisms is crucial for developing antiviral strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of lysosomes in the infection cycle of mouse hepatitis virus 3 (MHV3).
- To determine if lysosomal function is essential for MHV3 replication and cell entry.
Main Methods:
- Infection of L cells with MHV3 in the presence of lysosomotropic agents (NH4Cl, chloroquine).
- Measurement of virus-induced cytopathic effects and MHV3 replication.
- Assessment of viral attachment using radiolabeled virus.
- Evaluation of drug treatment timing on viral replication.
Main Results:
- NH4Cl significantly inhibited MHV3-induced cytopathic effects and viral replication.
- Viral attachment was not prevented by NH4Cl.
- Inhibition of replication was observed only when lysosomotropic agents were added within 3 hours post-infection.
- No inhibition was seen if agents were added later than 3 hours post-infection.
Conclusions:
- Lysosomes are directly involved in the release of the MHV3 viral genome into the cytoplasm.
- MHV3 likely enters cells via an endocytic pathway (viropexis).
- Following endocytosis, MHV3 is internalized into cellular lysosomes, where a critical step for infection occurs.
