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Updated: Sep 12, 2026

Propagating and Detecting an Infectious Molecular Clone of Maedi-visna Virus that Expresses Green Fluorescent Protein
Published on: October 9, 2011
Abstract:
Measles is one of widely spread virus infections that is a major cause of deaths in some tropical areas. The measles virus is a member of the genus of Morbillivirus of the family of Paramyxoviridae. The virions contain six polypeptides, including one glycoprotein; two of them are surface proteins that possess hemagglutinating and hemolytic activities, one of them is polymerase. Replication of the measles virus is similar to that of other Paramyxoviruses. Besides the acute infection for measles virus a persistent infection is characteristic that affects central nervous system and inner organs. Molecular mechanisms of it were studied and the results are discussed to explain the pathogenesis of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, systemic lupus erythematosus and other diseases in which measles or measles-like virus may be involved.
Insights
Measles virus causes acute and persistent infections, affecting the central nervous system and organs. Molecular studies explore its role in diseases like subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Measles is a widespread viral infection, a significant cause of mortality in tropical regions.
- The measles virus (genus Morbillivirus, family Paramyxoviridae) comprises six polypeptides, including surface glycoproteins with hemagglutinating and hemolytic activities.
- Viral replication follows typical Paramyxovirus patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying measles virus persistent infections.
- To elucidate the pathogenesis of diseases associated with measles virus, such as subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE).
Main Methods:
- Analysis of measles virus virion composition, including polypeptides and surface proteins.
- Study of measles virus replication processes.
- Investigation of molecular mechanisms driving persistent infections.
Main Results:
- Identified six viral polypeptides, including a glycoprotein, two surface proteins, and a polymerase.
- Confirmed similarities in replication to other Paramyxoviruses.
- Characterized persistent infection as a key feature affecting the central nervous system and internal organs.
Conclusions:
- Molecular mechanisms of measles virus persistent infection are crucial for understanding associated pathologies.
- Measles virus may be implicated in the pathogenesis of SSPE, systemic lupus erythematosus, and other conditions.
- Further research into measles virus molecular biology can illuminate disease mechanisms.
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