VIRUS-LIKE PARTICLES IN MDCK CELLS PERSISTENTLY INFECTED WITH BORNA-DISEASE VIRUS

• Authors: Richard Compans, Emory University; Lawrence R. Melsen, Emory University; Juan Carlos De la Torre, Emory University
• Journal Title: Virus Research
• Volume: Volume 33, Number 3
• Publisher: Elsevier Science B.V. | 1994-09-01, Pages 261-268
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/0168-1702(94)90107-4
• Subjects: Biology, Virology; Biology, Cell; Health Sciences, Immunology; Biology, Microbiology
• Keywords: Science & Technology; Life Sciences & Biomedicine; Virology; Madin darby canine kidney cell; Borna disease; Viral glycoproteins; Affective disorders; Antibodies; Polarity; System; Agent

Abstract

A line of Madin Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells persistently infected with Borna disease virus was examined by electron microscopy. Thin sections revealed the presence of intracytoplasmic virus-like particles ranging from 50-100 nm in diameter. Nuclei of the infected cells exhibited accumulation of electron-dense granular structures 15-18 nm in diameter. The intracytoplasmic particles were roughly spherical with a limiting membrane, suggesting the presence of a lipid-containing envelope. The internal structure consisted of strand-like material which in some cases was condensed underneath the envelope. The possible relationship of these particles to Boma disease virions is discussed.