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Induction of Experimental Autoimmune Hypophysitis in SJL Mice
Published on: December 18, 2010
[Immunopathology induced in the rat by Junin virus]
M C Remesar1, J L Blejer, M R Nejamkis
1Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Revista Argentina De Microbiologia
|October 1, 1990
Summary
Junin virus encephalitis in young rats is immunologically mediated. Antithymocyte serum (ATS) treatment improved survival by modulating the cellular immune response, proving its pathological role.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
Context:
- Junin virus infection in 10-day-old rats causes fatal encephalitis.
- The role of the cellular immune response in this model was previously uncharacterized.
Purpose:
- To investigate the pathological role of the cellular immune response in Junin virus-induced encephalitis.
- To evaluate the efficacy of antithymocyte serum (ATS) in modulating this response and improving survival.
Summary:
- Intra-cerebral Junin virus infection in 10-day-old rats leads to 100% mortality from immunopathological encephalitis.
- Antithymocyte serum (ATS) treatment, particularly a specific dosing schedule, increased survival to 54% and delayed mortality by 12 days.
- Viral brain titers remained unchanged, indicating the effect was immunomodulatory rather than antiviral.
- Transfer of splenocytes from infected older rats to younger, persistently infected rats induced mortality, confirming the immune system's role.
Impact:
- Demonstrates that Junin virus encephalitis in this model is primarily immunological.
- Highlights the pathological significance of the cellular immune response.
- Suggests potential therapeutic strategies targeting the immune system for Junin virus infections.
