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Establishment of a cynomolgus macaque model of influenza B virus infection
Mitsutaka Kitano1, Yasushi Itoh, Makoto Kodama
1Department of Pathology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga 520-2192, Japan.
Abstract:
Pathogenicity of influenza B virus was examined in cynomolgus macaques to establish a macaque model suitable for vaccine and antiviral drug development. We prepared influenza B viruses for inoculation with minimal passages after isolation from patients. Macaques inoculated with influenza B virus showed higher body temperature than that before infection for 6 to 12 days. Virus was detected in nasal, tracheal, and bronchial samples until 6 days after inoculation followed by an increase in neutralizing antibody. High levels of IL-6 and TNF-α in nasal swabs from the infected macaques were correlated with fever. Symptoms and duration of the viral replication would be sufficient to evaluate efficacy of vaccines and antiviral agents. In addition, measurement of immune responses including antibody and cytokine production would provide an immunological rationale in efficacy of vaccines and antiviral agents. The results suggest that cynomolgus macaques are appropriate model animals for research of influenza B virus.
Insights
Cynomolgus macaques effectively model influenza B virus infection, showing fever and viral shedding. This animal model is suitable for developing new vaccines and antiviral drugs.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Influenza B virus poses a significant public health threat.
- Development of effective vaccines and antiviral therapies is crucial.
- A suitable animal model is needed for preclinical research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate cynomolgus macaques as a model for influenza B virus infection.
- To assess the pathogenicity and immune response in macaques.
- To determine the suitability for vaccine and antiviral drug development.
Main Methods:
- Influenza B virus was prepared with minimal passages after patient isolation.
- Macaques were inoculated with the prepared virus.
- Body temperature, viral detection in respiratory samples, and immune markers (IL-6, TNF-α, neutralizing antibody) were monitored.
Main Results:
- Inoculated macaques exhibited elevated body temperature for 6–12 days post-infection.
- Influenza B virus was detected in nasal, tracheal, and bronchial samples up to 6 days.
- Increased levels of IL-6 and TNF-α correlated with fever, and neutralizing antibodies increased post-infection.
Conclusions:
- Cynomolgus macaques develop a robust influenza B virus infection model.
- The observed symptoms and immune responses support its use for evaluating vaccine and antiviral efficacy.
- This macaque model provides an immunological basis for drug and vaccine research.
