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3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine increases susceptibility to genital herpes simplex virus infection in mice

Jeffry W Pennock1, Rachael Stegall, Marcy J Bubar

  • 1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555, USA.

The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|September 18, 2009
PubMed

Insights

3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) increases susceptibility to herpes simplex virus type 2 infection and genital herpes onset in mice. MDMA also impacts innate immune system cytokines, suggesting a role in infection susceptibility.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Virology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), or ecstasy, is widely used in recreational settings.
  • MDMA use is anecdotally linked to increased sexually transmitted infections and potential immune system effects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of MDMA on herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) susceptibility and infection.
  • To examine the effects of MDMA on innate immune cytokines within the genital tract and systemically.

Main Methods:

  • Mice were used as a model system to study MDMA's effects on HSV-2 infection.
  • Cytokine levels were measured systemically and in the genital tract following MDMA administration.

Main Results:

  • MDMA administration led to increased susceptibility to HSV-2 infection in mice.
  • MDMA exposure resulted in an earlier onset of genital herpes in the studied mice.
  • MDMA significantly altered cytokine profiles in both systemic circulation and the genital tract.

Conclusions:

  • MDMA exposure enhances susceptibility to genital herpes virus infection.
  • MDMA influences the innate immune system, particularly cytokine responses, in the genital tract.
  • These findings suggest MDMA plays a significant biological role in modulating infection risk and progression.

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