Sensitivity of a Novel Lizard-Derived Cell Line (Z1) to Measles, Rubella and Respiratory Syncytial Viruses.

This study aimed to investigate the sensitivity of the Z1 cell line to Measles, Rubella and Respiratory Syncytial Viruses, and to follow up on the formation of subsequent cytopathic effects for evaluating the potential of the Z1 cell line as a suitable alternative for easier isolation, and identification of these viruses, and even quality control tests such as potency tests and production of biological products such as diagnostic antigens. The Z1 cell lines were prepared in disposable cell culture flasks and were inoculated with Measles, Rubella, and Respiratory Syncytial Viruses at defined multiplicity of infection. Vero-WHO, Rabbit Kidney-13 (RK-13), and Hep-2 cell lines were also prepared as standard cell substrates and were inoculated with Measles, Rubella and Respiratory Syncytial Viruses, respectively. The quality and quantity of CPE formation as the microscopic signs of viral replication in the test and control cell lines were daily observed. Samples were taken and the titer of progeny viruses was calculated to compare the viral yield. An interference test using the Vesicular Stomatitis Virus was also performed to confirm the replication of Rubella in the Rubella-inoculated cell cultures. In the case of Measles Virus there was a significant difference between viral yield in Z1 and Vero-WHO cells. For Rubella Virus there was a significant differences in viral yield in Z1 and Vero-WHO cells. Despite these, there were no significant difference between viral yield, when Respiratory Syncytial Virus inoculated to the Z1 and Vero-WHO cells. Collectively, the Z1 cell line could be considered a suitable alternative to Hep-2 for isolation and propagation of Respiratory Syncytial Virus, while it is relatively sensitive to Measles Virus. Despite this, the Z1 cell line could not be used as a cell substrate for Rubella Virus propagation.