The mechanism of the processes leading to membrane fusion is as yet unknown. In this report we demonstrate that changes in membrane potential and potassium fluxes correlate with Semliki Forest virus induced cell-cell fusion at mildly acidic pH. The changes observed occur only at pH's below 6.2 corresponding to values required to trigger the fusion process. A possible role of these alterations of the plasma membrane related to membrane fusion phenomena is discussed.

Keywords:
membrane fusion, membrane potential, Semliki Forest virus, Aedes albopictus cells, cell membrane, cation fluxes, potential sensitive dye
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© 1988 Plenum Publishing Corporation
1988
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