Lead exposure enhances virus multiplication and pathogenesis in mice
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Updated: Sep 30, 2026
Influenza A Virus Studies in a Mouse Model of Infection
Published on: September 7, 2017
Pratibha Gupta1, M M Husain, Ravi Shankar
1Virology Laboratory, Industrial Toxicology Research Centre, MG Marg, Lucknow, India.
Abstract:
Suppression of the immune system by environmental xenobiotics may cause increased susceptibility of the host towards a variety of microbial pathogens an result in a life-threatening state. We investigated whether lead exposure would enhance susceptibility to Semliki Forest Virus (SFV). Mice orally exposed to lead acetate (62.5, 125, 250 or 500 mg/kg bw) exhibited increased mortality and decreased mean survival time compared to untreated animals on challenge with SFV. The mortality was associated with enhancement of high virus titer and earlier appearance of virus in lead-exposed mice. Histopathological studies observed enhancement of viral pathogenesis in a dose dependent pattern in the lead-dosed group challenged with SFV. The results indicate that exposure to lead enhanced susceptibility to viral infection. Environmental metal contamination and subsequent infection by pathogenic microbes points necessitate studies on the interaction of environmental pollutants on the immune system.
Insights
Environmental lead exposure increases susceptibility to viral infections. Studies show lead-exposed mice had higher mortality and faster disease progression when infected with Semliki Forest Virus (SFV).
Area of Science:
- Environmental toxicology
- Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- Environmental xenobiotics can suppress the immune system, increasing host susceptibility to pathogens.
- Lead is a common environmental contaminant with potential immunotoxic effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of lead exposure on susceptibility to Semliki Forest Virus (SFV) infection.
Main Methods:
- Mice were orally exposed to varying doses of lead acetate.
- Mice were subsequently challenged with SFV.
- Mortality, survival time, viral titers, and histopathology were assessed.
Main Results:
- Lead-exposed mice showed increased mortality and reduced mean survival time compared to controls.
- Higher viral titers and earlier virus appearance were observed in lead-exposed mice.
- Histopathology revealed dose-dependent enhancement of viral pathogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Lead exposure enhances susceptibility to viral infections, specifically SFV.
- Environmental metal contamination may compromise immune defenses, necessitating further research into pollutant-immune system interactions.
