HeLa cell nucleolar RNA synthesis after poliovirus infection

Abstract

Infection of HeLa cell with poliovirus produces an early inhibition of host cell 45 S ribosomal RNA synthesis. The time of onset of inhibition is a function of the multiplicity of infection. Conversion of 45 S precursor RNA to 32 S ribosomal precursor RNA occurs at normal rates for some time after the onset of inhibition of synthesis and becomes depressed only at later times, suggesting that the effects of viral infection on cleavage and maturation of ribosomal RNA might be secondary to the decreased rate of formation of precursor. Prior to the onset of inhibition, there is a transient stimulation of ribosomal RNA synthesis. Infection in the presence of 3 m M guanidine causes a slower inhibition of RNA synthesis and enhances the detection of the stimulatory phase.