DNA synthesis in a Chlorella-like alga following infection with the virus PBCV-1

Abstract

Infection of the unicellular, eukaryotic Chlorella-like alga NC64A by the large dsDNA virus, PBCV-1, resulted in a threefold increase in total DNA by 4 hr post infection. Viral infection rapidly inhibited host DNA synthesis which was followed by the degradation of the host chloroplast and nuclear DNA. Viral DNA synthesis began 30 to 40 min after infection and was dependent on de novo protein synthesis. Thus, the virus does not carry all of the components required to form a functional viral DNA polymerase into the cell.