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Electron microscopic observation of a newly isolated flavivirus-like virus from field-caught mosquitoes
Abstract:
Of many unidentified virus strains which were isolated from field-caught mosquitoes by using C6/36 cells (a virus-sensitive clone of Aedes albopictus cells), three strains which formed small size plaques (SP virus) in C6/36 cells were investigated by electron microscopy. Although the SP virus strains did not react with antisera against known arboviruses in serological tests, they closely resembled flaviviruses in morphology. However, when they were compared to Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus, several differences in morphogenesis were observed. Proliferating membranous structures and electron-dense amorphous areas involving precursors of the virus were observed only in cells infected with the SP virus strains. Enlarged areas of endoplasmic reticulum containing mature virions were often observed adjacent to these structures. Since the SP virus strains were isolated from wild mosquitoes and multiplied only in mosquito cells, it seems appropriate to classify them as insect viruses which resemble togaviruses morphologically.
Insights
Three novel small plaque (SP) virus strains isolated from mosquitoes exhibit unique morphological characteristics. Electron microscopy revealed distinct differences from Japanese encephalitis virus, suggesting a potential new classification of insect viruses.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Microbiology
- Entomology
Background:
- Mosquitoes harbor numerous unidentified virus strains.
- C6/36 cells, derived from Aedes albopictus, are sensitive to various viruses.
- Characterizing novel mosquito-borne viruses is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphology and characteristics of three unidentified virus strains isolated from field-caught mosquitoes.
- To compare these strains with known arboviruses and Japanese encephalitis virus.
- To determine the appropriate classification for these novel viruses.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of virus strains from field-caught mosquitoes using C6/36 cells.
- Electron microscopy for detailed morphological analysis of infected cells.
- Serological tests using antisera against known arboviruses.
Main Results:
- Three strains, designated small plaque (SP) viruses, were identified.
- SP viruses showed morphological resemblance to flaviviruses but differed from Japanese encephalitis virus.
- Unique proliferating membranous structures and electron-dense areas were observed in SP virus-infected cells.
- Enlarged endoplasmic reticulum containing mature virions were noted adjacent to these structures.
Conclusions:
- SP virus strains, isolated from wild mosquitoes and replicating only in insect cells, warrant classification as insect viruses.
- Morphological evidence suggests a resemblance to togaviruses, despite initial similarities to flaviviruses.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the taxonomy and biological significance of these novel SP virus strains.