Cytopathic effects

Definition

Cytopathic effects are observable changes in host cells caused by viral infection. These effects can include cell lysis, altered cell morphology, or the formation of syncytia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cytopathic effects are key indicators used to identify viral infections in cell cultures.
2. Common cytopathic effects include rounding of cells, detachment from the substrate, and cell death.
3. The presence of cytopathic effects can be detected using light microscopy in laboratory settings.
4. Not all viruses induce visible cytopathic effects; some may cause more subtle cellular changes.
5. Cytopathic effect assays are crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of antiviral drugs.

Review Questions

• What are common cytopathic effects observed in virus-infected cells?
• How are cytopathic effects utilized in laboratory settings to detect viral infections?
• Why might some viruses not produce visible cytopathic effects?

Related terms

Syncytia: Large multinucleated cells formed by the fusion of infected cells as a result of certain viral infections.

Plaque Assay: A method used to measure the number of virus particles present in a sample by observing plaque formation on a cell monolayer.

Host Cell Lysis: The breaking down or destruction of the host cell's membrane resulting in cell death, often due to viral infection.