Visualizing viruses

Sep 17, 2020

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Fluorescent imaging of cells infected with CDV. Green: viral particles. Blue: cell nuclei.
Visualizing virusesViruses are very small. Tiny. For example, canine distemper virus (CDV) particles are about 200 nm in diameter. That is 0.0002 mm. Comparing this virus to a 1-mm-diameter bead is like comparing a pea to a football field or a golf ball to the Empire state building.
In our study, we plan to study the interaction of CDV with different tissues. So, how do we do to "see" where the viruses are? There are many ways to do this! In our case, we  use fluorescent probes. That means we are going to use molecules that interact with the virus and that emit fluorescent light. This light is easy to see with an adequate microscope.
The Keel lab has lots of experience doing microscopic imaging of tissue slides, including fluorescent images!

Carlos, Martin, and 4 others like this.

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Daniel Van Mosnenck

hi, with the "Cyclope" Project, i m designing a new 3d laser confocal and fluorescence microscope(option), with sub nanometer resolution... i try to get it at a very affordable price... but, initially, i need help in software development for it... can we ... try to cooperate? very nice and interesting subject... Daniel

Sep 22, 20200

About This Project

How do different strains of canine distemper virus alter disease outcomes for wildlife?

UC Davis

Distemper is a contagious frequently lethal disease that threatens many wild mammals, including endangered species. Disease presentation is very diverse, which might be due to the reported mutations in the viral proteins. We hypothesize that mutations in the proteins are related to differential binding to specific tissues in different species. This project will provide critical information for understanding the evolution and impact of distemper in wildlife.