Arbovirus replication in vertebrate cells : a comparative study

Abstract

The investigations described in this thesis compare certain properties of two group A (Ross River virus and Semliki Forest virus) and one group B arbovirus (Kunjin virus). Chapter I examines aspects of the growth of these viruses in vertebrate cell culture. Plaque development, the effects of adsorption temperature on virus titre and the characteristics of single-cycle growth of these viruses are reported. Attempts were made to measure the kinetics of virus development, to determine virus yields, and to examine the relation between cytopathic effect and single-cycle growth. In Chapter II experiments to further characterize RNA replication in group A and group B arbovirus-infected cells are described. The time­ course and levels of RNA synthesis are compared in cells infected by these viruses. RNA species made during replication of Semliki Forest and Ross River viruses are compared and partially characterized by electrophoresis on agarose gels. Show more