Is viral RNA synthesis required for reovirus-induced apoptosis?

RESULTS

Reovirus protein synthesis was inhibited at every concentrations of ribavirin tested.

Reovirus induced apoptosis at every concentrations of ribavirin tested.

Cells were treated with TNF-a a known inducer of apoptosis instead of T3SA⁺ virions as a positive control to prove that ribavirin does not affect cellular RNA synthesis and it does not effect the cells ability to undergo apoptosis.

QUESTIONS

Viral RNA synthesis is required for reovirus-induced apoptosis.

TRUE Incorrect!! This experiment proved that apoptosis occurred in the presence of ribavirin, which is an inhibitor of viral RNA synthesis.

FALSE Correct!! This experiment proved that apoptosis occurred in the presence of ribavirin, which is an inhibitor of viral RNA synthesis.

EXPLANATION Neither ssRNA synthesis during primary transcription nor steps in reovirus replication subsequent to primary transcription are required to induce apoptosis.

³⁵S methionine-cysteine played a role in inducing apoptotis in HeLa cells.

TRUE Incorrect. S-35 is a radiolabeling tag, not a direct inhibitor or activator.

FALSE Correct. S-35 is a radiolabeling tag, not a direct inhibitor or activator.

EXPLANATION This chemical was merely used to aid in the visualization and quantification of protein products.

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