The tale of an enveloped virus. Ebola Virus The tale of an enveloped virus.

Enveloped Viruses Viral envelope is derived from the plasma membrane. Virus exits the cell by budding, which surrounds the viral proteins and genome with an envelope. Budding process may damage the cell. Low level of release allows the cell to survive. The viral envelope contains virus-specific proteins. The viral envelope may be tight or loose around the virion. Viral envelopes cause the virus to be sensitive towards the environment. If the envelope is damaged, the virus is inactivated.

Ebola Quick Facts Family: Filoviridae Fibrous, enveloped virus. There are five identified Ebola virus species, four of which are known to cause disease in humans: Zaire ebolavirus, Sudan ebolavirus, Taï Forest ebolavirus, Bundibugyo ebolavirus. Reservoir is unknown; however, evidence suggests that bats might be the natural reservoir. Infection causes hemorrhagic fever. Fever (greater than 101.5°F) Severe headache Muscle pain Weakness Diarrhea Vomiting Abdominal (stomach) pain Unexplained hemorrhage (bleeding or bruising)

Ebola Surface Markers The sole molecule on the Ebolavirus surface is a glycoprotein (GP). Helps attachment to and entering new host cells. Shields the viral surface from immune surveillance. Maintains viral stability when outside the host cell. Ebolavirus GP contains two subunits with separate structural and functional roles. GP1 is responsible for receptor engagement. GP2 mediates fusion of viral and host membranes. http://www-als.lbl.gov/index.php/contact/163-structure-of-the-ebola-virus-glycoprotein-bound-to-an-antibody-from-a-human-survivor.html

Host Immune System Attack Early targets of the virus are the monocytes and the macrophages of the host immune system. Other target cells: dendritic cells, liver cells, endothelial cells. Patient begins to bleed internally as the epithelial cells of the veins/arteries are attacked.

Capsid Capsid and viral genome enter the cell RNA Envelope (with glycoproteins) HOST CELL Viral genome (RNA) Template mRNA Capsid proteins ER Copy of genome (RNA) Glyco- proteins New virus

Treatment Symptoms of Ebola are treated as they appear. Basic interventions: Providing intravenous fluids (IV)and balancing electrolytes (body salts). Maintaining oxygen status and blood pressure. Treating other infections if they occur. Experimental vaccines and treatments for Ebola are under development, but they have not yet been fully tested for safety or effectiveness.. People who recover from Ebola infection develop antibodies that last for at least 10 years, possibly longer.