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[Virus-like particles in yeast protoplasts. I. Electron microscopic demonstration]
Zeitschrift Fur Allgemeine Mikrobiologie
|January 1, 1975
Summary
Virus-like particles were found in degenerating Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells. High particle amounts correlated with cell damage and lysis, suggesting a viral cause for these yeast cell abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Yeast Genetics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a model organism in biological research.
- Abnormal cell morphology and degeneration phenomena in yeast can impact experimental outcomes.
- Understanding the causes of cellular damage is crucial for yeast biology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of virus-like particles in degenerating Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
- To determine the correlation between virus-like particles and cellular degeneration.
- To assess the potential role of these particles in yeast cell pathology.
Main Methods:
- Ultrathin sectioning of yeast protoplasts.
- Negative staining of isolated particles.
- Electron microscopy for particle visualization and characterization.
- Correlation analysis between particle load and cellular degeneration.
Main Results:
- Virus-like particles, approximately 50 nm in diameter with an electron-dense core and envelope, were identified within Saccharomyces cerevisiae protoplasts.
- Cells contained up to 30,000 particles.
- A positive correlation was observed between the quantity of virus-like particles and the extent of cellular substructure degeneration.
- Protoplasts with high particle titers exhibited lysis.
- No plaque formation was observed on agar plates.
Conclusions:
- The observed cytopathological effects in Saccharomyces cerevisiae are consistent with viral infection.
- Virus-like particles are strongly implicated as the causative agents of degeneration and lysis in this yeast strain.
- Further research may be needed to characterize the specific virus and its replication cycle.