Electron Microscopy of Adenovirus 12 Replication 1. Fine Structural Changes in the Nucleus of Infected KB Cells

Abstract

The ultrastructure of KB cells infected with oncogenic adenovirus 12 was studied at various intervals from 4 to 72 hr after viral inoculation. At 12 hr after infection, the nucleus and the nucleolus became hypertrophic. At 16 hr, bundles of fibers digestable by proteolytic enzymes were seen in the nucleus; they are considered as the early viral antigens identified immunologically by others. Between 24 and 26 hr, four types of nuclear inclusions appeared. Their sequence of appearance and fine structure are described. On the basis of their sensitivity to proteolytic digestion in thin sections, and the results of immunoferritin studies made by others, some of these inclusions are believed to represent viral structural antigens. Throughout the cycle of viral replication, the nucleolus displayed prominent and constant changes in the form of focal condensations and loosening of the nucleolonema, followed by atrophy and fragmentation. It is suggested that the early nucleolar changes reflect an active participation of the nucleolus in the synthesis of adenovirus 12. A hitherto unknown striated structure with definite periodicity, which is easily digested by proteolytic enzymes, was found in the nuclei during the late stages of adenovirus 12 replication.