Influenza virus replication in human cells exposed to the pesticide emulsifier Atlox.

The emulsifier Atlox was capable of enhancing the infectivity of influenza virus in Chang human conjunctiva cells. Prior to infection, pre-treatment of cells with 2.5 to 10 ppm of Atlox for 6 to 8 h was necessary to detect an increase in virus production. Although there was no difference in the amount of adsorbed virus, the number of successfully infected cells was at least 1 log higher in Atlox treated cells as compared to the controls. Monitoring the 51Cr release from Atlox treated cells indicated a temporary change in membrane structure of the cells as one of the mechanisms of virus enhancement.