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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
11:56
Ex Vivo Infection of Murine Epidermis with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Published on: August 24, 2015
[Morphological changes of ECV304 cells infected by herpes simplex virus type 2]
Hai-quan Zhao1, Wen-li Ma, Ya-li Zhang
1Institute of Molecular Biology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
Summary
Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection causes pathological changes in ECV304 cells, leading to cell necrosis rather than apoptosis. This study observed swelling, rounding, and cell fusion following HSV-2 exposure.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Context:
- Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is a significant human pathogen.
- Understanding viral interactions with host cells is crucial for developing antiviral strategies.
- Endothelial cells play a role in viral dissemination.
Purpose:
- To investigate the in vitro pathological and morphological effects of HSV-2 infection on ECV304 cells.
- To characterize the cellular response to HSV-2 at the morphological level.
Summary:
- ECV304 cells were infected with HSV-2 and observed for changes using microscopy and staining.
- Initial changes included cell swelling, rounding, and increased cytoplasmic granules.
- Subsequent observations revealed cell fusion and weakened nuclear staining, indicating necrosis.
Impact:
- The findings suggest that ECV304 cells primarily undergo necrosis following HSV-2 infection.
- This research contributes to understanding HSV-2 pathogenesis in endothelial cells.
- Results highlight the distinct cellular response to HSV-2, differentiating it from apoptotic pathways.
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