Transformation of primary hamster embryo fibroblasts by type 2 simplex virus: evidence for a "hit and run" mechanism.

The phenomenon of cell transformation by type 2 herpes simplex virus has been investigated. Primary hamster embryo fibroblasts were exposed to type 2 herpes virus under conditions which would restrict or inhibit the lytic events of virus-cell interaction. Cell lines were established by single-cell cloning. There was evidence of altered cell morphology with altered biological activity in terms of longevity and oncogenicity; there was, however, no evidence of virus specific antigen or incorporation of viral nucleic acid into the host cell genome. Virus specific antigen was only detected in the early passages of an uncloned transformed cell line. We are thus unable to confirm previous studies (vide supra) and are obliged to propose a "hit and run" model for in vitro cell transformation by type 2 herpes simplex virus.