Characterization of spiroplasma virus group 4 (SV4)

Spiroplasma virus Group 4 was propagated, purified and characterized. The isometric capsid is made from one major protein of 60,000 Da and contains a circular single-stranded DNA molecule of 1.7 X 10(6) Da. The host-range of SV4 is limited to Subgroup I-2 spiroplasmas. The virions are released from the infected cells by a lytic process. Transfection of spiroplasmas of Subgroup I-2 by the viral DNA was demonstrated. A high efficiency of transfection was routinely obtained in the presence of polyethyleneglycol. These experiments indicate that spiroplasmas can absorb viral DNA, opening the way for cloning.