Physicochemical properties and cytopathogenicity of an adenovirus-like agent isolated from corn snake (Elaphe guttata).

A virus isolated from the internal organs of a moribund corn snake (Elaphe guttata) replicated in reptilian cell cultures (IgH-2, TH-1 cells) between 10 and 30 degrees C. Highest infectivity titers of 10(5.5) TCID50/ml were obtained in IgH-2 cells at 25 degrees C. Infected IgH-2 cells showed the development of three morphologically different intranuclear inclusion bodies. During viral assembly the particles formed typical crystalline aggregates in the nucleus. About 64 h after infection progressive desintegration of the nuclear membrane was evident and virus particles were released into the cytoplasm. Different fish cell lines (CLC, CHSE-214, BF-2, PG, RTG-2) were not capable of propagating the virus. The DNA containing agent proved to be stable at pH3, more or less at pH 12 and to treatment with chloroform, but it was rapidly inactivated at 56 degrees C. Electron microscopy revealed nonenveloped icosahedral particles with a diameter of 65-70 nm.