On the cpsid structure of some small feline and bovine RNA viruses.

Abstract

Six feline virus strains formerly classified as picornaviruses differed significantly in their morphology from picornaviruses of other species, among which two bovine enteroviruses run as controls. The size of the virion of the feline strains is about 40 mμ. The (outer) capsid comprises 32 morphological units, about 8 mμ in diameter and largely penetrated by phosphotungstate when negatively stained. The surface structure of the feline viruses resembles strongly that of reoviruses. This morphological resemblance is strengthened by the probable presence of an inner capsid. In some other respects, however, the strains differ from reoviruses. Possible taxonomical consequences are outlined.