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Persistent measles virus infection in a calf kidney cell line. Note IV. Electron microscopic observations in the K-2
Abstract:
An electron microscopic study was performed in the K-2 calf kidney cell line persistently infected with measles virus. Aggregates of granular filamentous structures 20-30 nm in diameter were detected in the paranuclear zone of the cytoplasm. Rare, isolated smooth filaments 15-17 nm in diameter were also observed. No such structures were seen in the nucleus. The budding process was very active. Many pleomorphic particles ranging in diameter from 100 to 600 nm were observed at the cell surface and in the intercellular space; the particles contained a variable amount of filamentous nucleocapsid structures and had an envelope with discontinuous fuzzy material.
Insights
Electron microscopy revealed novel granular filamentous structures in measles virus-infected calf kidney cells. These structures, 20-30 nm in diameter, were observed in the cytoplasm, aiding in understanding measles virus replication.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Virology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Persistent measles virus infection in cell lines can alter cellular morphology.
- Understanding the ultrastructural changes associated with viral replication is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the ultrastructural changes in K-2 calf kidney cells persistently infected with measles virus using electron microscopy.
- To identify and describe any novel viral or cellular structures associated with the infection.
Main Methods:
- Persistent infection of K-2 calf kidney cells with measles virus.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for ultrastructural analysis.
- Morphological examination of infected cells, focusing on cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments.
Main Results:
- Detection of aggregates of granular filamentous structures (20-30 nm diameter) in the paranuclear cytoplasm.
- Observation of rare, isolated smooth filaments (15-17 nm diameter).
- No such structures were found in the nucleus.
- Active viral budding at the cell surface and in the intercellular space.
- Pleomorphic particles (100-600 nm diameter) with filamentous nucleocapsids and fuzzy envelopes were abundant.
Conclusions:
- The study identified specific cytoplasmic filamentous structures in measles virus-infected cells.
- These structures may play a role in the measles virus life cycle or represent cellular responses to infection.
- Electron microscopy provides valuable insights into the ultrastructure of persistent viral infections.