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Interaction of Listeria monocytogenes and influenza in an animal model
Abstract:
This study was designed to investigate the effects of viruses in the pathogenesis of Listeria monocytogenes. The organisms used in this study were: Listeria monocytogenes Type 1 isolated from a local fatal case; Mouse adapted influenza A/PR8/34 (HONI); Streptococcus pneumoniae Group B (U.M. Med. Ctr.) and poliovirus Type 2 MEF--G3M2. Balb-C mice were inoculated intraperitoneally with one LD50 of Listeria monocytogenes. Ten days later, the survivors were challenged intransally with 10 LD50 of influenza virus and observed for 14 days. Another set of Balb-C mice was inoculated intranasally with one LD50 of influenza virus and the survivors challenged 14 days later intraperitoneally with 10 LD50 of Listeria monocytogenes. Controls consisted of similar inoculation and challenge methods in mice using Streptococcus pneumoniae and polio virus with Listeria monocytogenes and influenza virus. Cross protection was observed only between Listeria monocytogenes and influenza virus. Cellular immunity may play a role in this interaction. This findings seem to agree with reports from others who showed cross protection between Listeria monocytogenes and other intracellular bacteria and parasites.
Insights
This study explored how viruses impact Listeria monocytogenes infection in mice. Researchers found cross-protection between Listeria monocytogenes and influenza virus, suggesting a role for cellular immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Virology
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes is a significant bacterial pathogen.
- Viral infections can influence bacterial pathogenesis.
- Understanding host-pathogen interactions is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interplay between viral infections and Listeria monocytogenes pathogenesis.
- To determine if viral infections affect the course of Listeria monocytogenes infection in a mouse model.
- To explore potential cross-protection mechanisms between viruses and Listeria monocytogenes.
Main Methods:
- Balb-C mice were inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes and subsequently challenged with influenza virus.
- Separate groups of mice were inoculated with influenza virus and then challenged with Listeria monocytogenes.
- Control groups received Streptococcus pneumoniae or poliovirus alongside Listeria monocytogenes or influenza virus challenges.
Main Results:
- Cross-protection was observed exclusively between Listeria monocytogenes and influenza virus.
- Mice infected with one pathogen showed some resistance to the other.
- No cross-protection was noted with Streptococcus pneumoniae or poliovirus challenges.
Conclusions:
- A reciprocal cross-protection exists between Listeria monocytogenes and influenza virus.
- Cellular immunity likely mediates the observed cross-protection.
- These findings align with previous reports on cross-protection between intracellular bacteria/parasites and Listeria monocytogenes.