Characterization of a latent virus-like infection of symbiotic zooxanthellae.
A latent virus-like agent, which we designated zooxanthella filamentous virus 1 (ZFV1), was isolated from Symbiodinium sp. strain CCMP 2465 and characterized. Transmission electron microscopy and analytical flow cytometry revealed the presence of a new group of distinctive filamentous virus-like particles after exposure of the zooxanthellae to UV light. Examination of thin sections of the zooxanthellae revealed the formation and proliferation of filamentous virus-like particles in the UV-induced cells. Assessment of Symbiodinium sp. cultures was used here as a model to show the effects of UV irradiance and induction of potential latent viruses. The unique host-virus system described here provides insight into the role of latent infections in zooxanthellae through environmentally regulated viral induction mechanisms.
Lohr
Jayme
J
Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Plymouth, UK.
Munn
Colin B
CB
Wilson
William H
WH
D000818:Animals; D037421:Anthozoa / Q000469:parasitology*; D004141:Dinoflagellida / Q000648:ultrastructure / Q000821:virology*; D005434:Flow Cytometry; D046529:Microscopy, Electron, Transmission; D013559:Symbiosis; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays; D014771:Virion / Q000502:physiology / Q000528:radiation effects / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D014775:Virus Activation / Q000528:radiation effects