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An insect cell line persistently infected with a baculovirus-like particle
Abstract:
A persistent infection by a baculovirus-like particle was found in the established lepidopteran (Heliothis zea) cell line, IMC-HZ-1. The virus caused CPE in less than 1% of the IMC-HZ-1 cells, as measured by phase-contrast and electron microscopy. Transmission tests showed that four lepidopteran cell lines were susceptible to the persistent virus (designated as IMC-HZ-I-NOV). In inoculated TN-368 cell cultures, 90--100% infection was achieved. The ultrastructure and development of IMC-HZ-I-NOV in cell cultures were similar to known baculoviruses, and it is probable that this persistent virus is a member of the family Baculoviridae. Two lepidopterous species (Estigmene acrea and H. zea) inoculated with IMC-HZ-1-NOV by intrahemocoelic injection and/or per os feeding of larvae were not susceptible.
Insights
A novel baculovirus-like particle, IMC-HZ-I-NOV, persistently infects lepidopteran cell lines, with high susceptibility observed in TN-368 cells. Insect larvae, however, showed no susceptibility to this persistent virus.
Area of Science:
- * Virology
- * Insect Pathology
- * Cell Biology
Background:
- * A persistent baculovirus-like particle infection was identified in the Heliothis zea IMC-HZ-1 cell line.
- * The virus induced minimal cytopathic effect (CPE) in the host IMC-HZ-1 cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To characterize a persistent baculovirus-like particle found in lepidopteran cells.
- * To determine the susceptibility of other lepidopteran cell lines and insect species to this novel virus.
Main Methods:
- * Phase-contrast and electron microscopy were used to assess viral effects.
- * Transmission tests were conducted on four lepidopteran cell lines.
- * Larval susceptibility was evaluated via intrahemocoelic injection and oral feeding.
Main Results:
- * The persistent virus, designated IMC-HZ-I-NOV, infected four lepidopteran cell lines, achieving 90-100% infection in TN-368 cells.
- * Ultrastructural analysis indicated similarities to known baculoviruses.
- * Two lepidopterous species, Estigmene acrea and H. zea, were not susceptible to infection.
Conclusions:
- * IMC-HZ-I-NOV is likely a member of the Baculoviridae family.
- * The virus demonstrates cell-line specific tropism, infecting cultured cells but not larvae of susceptible species.