Enhanced poliovirus replication in cytomegalovirus-infected human fibroblasts.

Replication of poliovirus in human cytomegalovirus (CMV)-infected cells is enhanced 5-to 10-fold over replication in uninfected cells. Enhanced poliovirus replication in dually infected cells was not due to a difference in adsorption on infected cells and was supported by evidence of increased synthesis of polio-specific RNA. A functional CMV genome appeared to be required for the enhancement of polio replication since enhanced replication was not seen in cells infected with uv-irradiated CMV or in cultures treated with the inhibitors of CMV replication. Enhanced polio replication in CMV-infected cells may be due to the enhanced cellular metabolism in these cells.