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Herpetic keratitis in athymic (nude) mice.
Infection and Immunity
|December 1, 1979
Summary
The immune system protects against herpes simplex virus (HSV) spread but also causes corneal damage during infection. Athymic mice lacked this immune response and keratitis, highlighting its dual role.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common cause of infectious keratitis.
- The role of the host immune response in HSV keratitis pathogenesis is complex.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the immune system in the inflammatory response to HSV corneal infection.
- To compare the susceptibility and corneal pathology in athymic (nu/nu) and heterozygote (nu/+) mice.
Main Methods:
- Corneal inoculation of HSV in athymic and heterozygote BALB/c mice.
- Clinical observation for mortality and keratitis development.
- Light and electron microscopy to examine corneal inflammatory cell infiltration.
Main Results:
- Athymic mice were highly susceptible to HSV infection and mortality but did not develop necrotizing keratitis.
- Heterozygote mice survived initial infection but developed necrotizing keratitis and corneal scarring.
- Inflammatory cells (polymorphonuclear leukocytes, lymphocytes) were present in heterozygote corneas but absent in athymic corneas.
Conclusions:
- The immune system plays a dual role in HSV corneal infection.
- Immune response is crucial for controlling viral dissemination.
- Immune-mediated inflammation contributes to the immunopathogenesis of necrotizing keratitis.