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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
05:53
Use of In vivo Imaging to Monitor the Progression of Experimental Mouse Cytomegalovirus Infection in Neonates
Published on: July 6, 2013
A mouse model for cytomegalovirus infection
W Brune1, H Hengel, U H Koszinowski
1University of Munich, Max von Pettenkofer Institute, Munich, Germany.
Current Protocols in Immunology
|April 25, 2008
Summary
This study details methods for infecting mice with murine cytomegalovirus (mCMV). It includes protocols for virus propagation, preparing virulent strains, and quantifying viral load using plaque-forming cell assays.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Animal Models
Background:
- Murine cytomegalovirus (mCMV) is a significant pathogen in research settings.
- Understanding mCMV infection dynamics is crucial for developing effective countermeasures.
- Standardized protocols are needed for consistent mCMV research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe standardized procedures for infecting mice with mCMV.
- To provide methods for mCMV propagation and preparation of virulent strains.
- To detail a plaque-forming cell (PFC) assay for viral quantification.
Main Methods:
- Infection of newborn and adult mice with mCMV.
- Propagation of mCMV in cell cultures.
- Preparation of virulent mCMV from infected mouse salivary glands.
- Murine embryonic fibroblast preparation.
- Plaque-forming cell (PFC) assay for mCMV titration.
Main Results:
- Established protocols for successful mCMV infection in mice.
- Demonstrated methods for generating high-titer mCMV stocks.
- Validated the PFC assay for accurate measurement of mCMV titers.
Conclusions:
- The described procedures provide a robust framework for mCMV research.
- Standardized methods facilitate reproducible studies on mCMV pathogenesis and immunity.
- Accurate viral quantification is essential for evaluating antiviral strategies.
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