Electron microscopic study of the development of Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis viruses propagated in vitro

The changes occurring in the nuclei and cytoplasms of BHK21 cells during infection with the two subgroups of Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis viruses were studied by electron microscopy. The nuclear alterations include: formation of clumps and margination of chromatin, enlargement of perinuclear spaces, deformation and displacement of the nucleus. The cytoplasmic alterations include: increase in the number of ribosomes, extensive proliferation of smooth membranes at the centrosphere of infected cells, appearance of electron-dense bodies, and decrease in number and swelling of mitochondria. At late stages of infection, GDVII and FA viruses which represent the virulent subgroup, form crystalline arrays in the cytoplasm of infected cells. A few mechanisms by which these crystals may be formed are discussed. The later stages of TO viruses infection, which cause a persistent infection in mice, differed markedly from those of GDVII and FA viruses. TO viruses were found to be arranged in a single file between two sheets of membranes. A model for this unique structure is presented.