[Electron microscopic investigation of CD4+ lymphocyte cell line C8166 after infection with simian immunodeficiency
F J Kaup1, K Bingger, K Mätz-Rensing
1Deutsches Primatenzentrum Göttingen, Abteilung Infektionspathologie.
Abstract:
The SIV infection of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) is the most appropriate animal model in HIV research. The permanent human T-cell line C8166 is used for in vitro SIV propagation. This paper describes ultrastructural features of the cells after infection with SIVmac. The C8166 cells are ultrastructurally characterized by a heterogenous morphology which is independent of the infection. SIV induced cell syncytia are observed 18 hours after infection. Viral particles and budding occur 48 hours p.i with a peak at the day 8. Viral particles present the typical lentiviral morphology. Using the monoclonal antibody anti SIVp28 and ultra small (0.8 nm) immunogold-silver enhancement technique, we are able to demonstrate SIV antigen immunoelectron microscopically. Therefore, this ultrastructural method is suitable to detect SIV antigen in in vivo experiments with C8166 cells from day 8 p.i. serving as positive control.
Insights
The simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) in rhesus macaques is a key HIV research model. This study details ultrastructural changes in C8166 cells post-SIV infection, showing viral antigen detection via immunoelectron microscopy.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Context:
- The rhesus macaque model is crucial for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) research.
- C8166 cells, a permanent human T-cell line, are utilized for in vitro simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) propagation.
- Understanding SIV infection dynamics at the ultrastructural level is vital for developing effective interventions.
Purpose:
- To describe the ultrastructural characteristics of C8166 cells following SIVmac infection.
- To identify the temporal dynamics of SIV replication and assembly within these cells.
- To validate an immunoelectron microscopy technique for SIV antigen detection.
Summary:
- C8166 cells exhibit heterogeneous morphology irrespective of SIV infection.
- SIV-induced syncytia appear 18 hours post-infection, with viral particles and budding peaking at day 8.
- Viral particles display typical lentiviral morphology.
- An ultra-small immunogold-silver enhancement technique using anti-SIVp28 effectively demonstrates SIV antigen.
Impact:
- This ultrastructural method provides a sensitive approach for detecting SIV antigens.
- The findings support the use of C8166 cells as a positive control in in vivo SIV detection experiments.
- Enhanced understanding of SIV ultrastructure aids in the development of antiviral strategies and diagnostic tools.
