Effect of interferon on transient shut-off of cellular RNA and protein synthesis induced by mengo virus infection (original) (raw)

Infection of L929 mouse cells with Mengo virus leads to a rapid cessation of cellular RNA synthesis followed by protein synthesis inhibition. This study explores the role of interferon in modifying these effects. Pretreatment with interferon blocks viral replication but does not prevent the initial viral-induced shut-off of host macromolecular synthesis. However, with continued interferon presence, the synthesis of RNA and proteins recovers later in infection, suggesting a transient shut-off. The research also investigates the potential degradation of RNA and the implications of actinomycin D on these processes, revealing that the disturbances in RNA synthesis may contribute to protein synthesis inhibition, with significant insights into the cellular response to viral infections.