Respiration and ATP level in BHK21/13S cells during the earlist stages of rubella virus replication.

This study is concerned with the effect of virus infection on the energy balance of the cell and the possible involvement of mitochondria in virus replication. The process of rubella virus adsorption and penetration is immediately associated with a stimulation of O2 uptake. Shortly afterwards, ATP levels decline, possible because of increased ATP utilization. Virus infection appears to protect mitochondria against the uncoupling effect of dinitrophenol.