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Behaviour, chemosignals and endocrine functions in male mice infected with tick-borne encephalitis virus
Mikhail Moshkin1, Ludmila Gerlinskaya, Olga Morozova
1Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of RAS, 630091, Novosibirsk, Frunze str. 11, Russia. mmp@eco.nsc.ru
Abstract:
Odour attractiveness, social behaviour and endocrine status of male mice (outbred ICR strain) were examined 6-7 days after inoculation with subclinical dose of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBE). According to RT-PCR control of efficiency of infection, males injected with TBE were divided on the two subgroups: TBE+ (males with viral RNA) and TBE- (males without viral RNA). Susceptible males (TBE+ subgroup) showed the higher level of plasma testosterone in comparison with both control and nonsusceptible (TBE- subgroup) males. TBE+ males had also more odour attraction for oestrus females and more aggressiveness in social conflict. Higher sexual attractiveness and aggressiveness of the infected host benefit the pathogen's distribution in the host population.
Insights
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBE) infection in male mice increases testosterone, enhancing their attractiveness to females and aggression. This benefits TBE virus transmission within the host population.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Subclinical infections can alter host physiology and behavior.
- Understanding how viruses manipulate host behavior is crucial for disease ecology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBE) infection on male mouse endocrine status, social behavior, and olfactory attractiveness.
Main Methods:
- Male ICR mice were inoculated with TBE virus.
- Mice were categorized into TBE-positive (viral RNA detected) and TBE-negative subgroups using RT-PCR.
- Plasma testosterone levels, odor attractiveness to receptive females, and aggressiveness in social conflicts were assessed.
Main Results:
- TBE-positive males exhibited significantly higher plasma testosterone levels compared to controls and TBE-negative males.
- TBE-positive males displayed increased olfactory attractiveness to females and heightened aggressiveness during social interactions.
- These behavioral changes were observed 6-7 days post-infection.
Conclusions:
- Subclinical TBE virus infection can enhance male mouse testosterone levels, leading to increased sexual attractiveness and aggression.
- These virus-induced behavioral modifications may facilitate pathogen transmission by increasing host contact rates.