CNS Viruses -- Arenaviridae -- Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus

Question 1

What is the structure of Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus?

Answer 1

Enveloped, segmented, ambisense RNA virus

Question 2

What do the virions contain?

Answer 2

two RNA segments encoding 4 proteins

Question 3

T/F – Virions of LCMV often contain host cell ribosomes

Answer 3

True

Question 4

How do LCMV enter the host cell? What other CNS viruses do this?

Answer 4

pH-dependent manner; Togaviridae (WEE,EEE,VEE) and Rhabdoviridae (Rabies)

Question 5

How do LCMV viruses replicate in the host cell?

Answer 5

Ambisense replication; short and long RNA segments used

Question 6

What does ambisense replication even mean?

Answer 6

NP genes on S segment transcribed/translated –> replicate full length RNA to (+) sense antigenome -> translate/transcribe GP genes

Question 7

How do LCMV virions get out of the cell?

Answer 7

Budding

Question 8

How is LCMV transmitted?

Answer 8

Inhalation of aerosolized virus from rodent excreta and saliva

Question 9

Is LCMV often fatal?

Answer 9

No

Question 10

How long after prodrome/viremia does aseptic meningitis occur?

Answer 10

10 days

Question 11

What one serious neurologic sequela can occur?

Answer 11

Sudden-onset deafness

Question 12

Is there a vaccine for LCMV?

Answer 12

No