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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
Confocal Imaging of Double-Stranded RNA and Pattern Recognition Receptors in Negative-Sense RNA Virus Infection
Published on: January 26, 2019
Detection of double-stranded RNA molecules and virus-like particles in different Mucor species
C Vágvölgyi1, K Magyar, T Papp
1Department of Microbiology, Attila József University, Szeged, Hungary.
Abstract:
The presence of double-stranded RNA elements was examined in 123 strains representing 18 Mucor species. These genetic elements were found to be present in 6 strains: 1 M. aligarensis, 1 M. hiemalis, 2 M. corticolus, 1 M. mucedo and 1 M. ramannianus. Electrophoretic separation of the nucleic acids revealed 4 different RNA patterns, with 1 to 5 discrete dsRNA bands. The molecular weights corresponding to these bands were 1.42-4.15 x 10(6) D. Using electronmicroscopy, for the first time the presence of virus like particles in Mucor species has been revealed.
Insights
Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) elements were detected in six Mucor species strains. This study also revealed virus-like particles in Mucor species for the first time using electron microscopy.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Mucor species are fungi with significant ecological and economic impact.
- The presence and nature of genetic elements like double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) in Mucor are not well understood.
- Investigating dsRNA can provide insights into fungal genetics and potential viral infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) elements in various Mucor species.
- To characterize the dsRNA elements found in these fungi.
- To identify virus-like particles associated with Mucor species.
Main Methods:
- Screening of 123 Mucor strains from 18 different species for dsRNA presence.
- Electrophoretic separation of nucleic acids to analyze dsRNA patterns and quantify bands.
- Determination of molecular weights of dsRNA bands.
- Utilizing electron microscopy to visualize virus-like particles.
Main Results:
- dsRNA elements were identified in 6 out of 123 strains, specifically in Mucor aligarensis, M. hiemalis, M. corticolus, M. mucedo, and M. ramannianus.
- Four distinct RNA patterns were observed, comprising 1 to 5 discrete dsRNA bands.
- The molecular weights of these dsRNA bands ranged from 1.42 to 4.15 x 10^6 Daltons.
- Virus-like particles were visualized in Mucor species using electron microscopy, marking a novel finding.
Conclusions:
- Double-stranded RNA elements are present in a subset of Mucor species.
- The dsRNA elements exhibit variability in their electrophoretic patterns and molecular weights.
- The discovery of virus-like particles in Mucor species opens new avenues for research into fungal virology and the biology of these fungi.
