Cytopathic effects (CPEs)

Definition

Cytopathic effects (CPEs) are observable changes in host cells caused by viral invasion. These changes can include cell lysis, syncytia formation, and inclusion bodies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CPEs are a primary method of identifying virus-infected cells in culture.
2. Common types of CPEs include cell rounding, detachment, and fusion into multinucleated cells.
3. The presence and type of CPE can help differentiate between different viruses.
4. Not all viruses produce visible CPEs; some may require additional diagnostic methods.
5. Detection of CPEs often involves monitoring cell cultures under a microscope over several days.

Review Questions

Related terms

Cell Culture:

A laboratory process where cells are grown under controlled conditions, often used to study viral infections.

Syncytia Formation: Fusion of multiple host cells into single large cells containing multiple nuclei, often induced by viral infection.

Inclusion Bodies: Distinctive intracellular structures formed during viral infection that can be used as markers for identifying infected cells.