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Updated: Mar 2, 2026
A Model for Epilepsy of Infectious Etiology using Theiler's Murine Encephalomyelitis Virus
Published on: June 23, 2022
Characterization of the TO strains of Theiler's mouse encephalomyelitis viruses
Abstract:
Theiler's mouse encephalomyelitis virus isolates from the central nervous systems of spontaneously paralyzed mice and stools of asymptomatic mice resemble Theiler's original virus isolates. In this study four such strains were adapted by blind subpassage to replicate and to produce cytopathic effect in cell culture. These viruses were then found to be closely related to each other and to GDVII virus by cross-neutralization and to form small plaques. Bovine serum was found to contain cross-reacting antibodies to these viruses.
Insights
Theiler
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
Background:
- Theiler's mouse encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) causes neurological disease in mice.
- Isolates from naturally infected mice share characteristics with the original TMEV strains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To adapt and characterize TMEV isolates from naturally infected mice.
- To investigate their relationship with GDVII virus and antibody responses.
Main Methods:
- Adaptation of four TMEV strains to cell culture via blind subpassage.
- Cross-neutralization assays to assess viral relatedness.
- Plaque size analysis.
- Detection of antibodies in bovine serum.
Main Results:
- Adapted TMEV strains replicated and produced cytopathic effects in cell culture.
- These strains were antigenically related to each other and GDVII virus.
- Small plaque formation was observed.
- Bovine serum contained cross-reacting antibodies against these TMEV isolates.
Conclusions:
- The studied TMEV isolates are closely related to GDVII virus.
- Bovine serum can harbor antibodies that cross-react with these TMEV strains.
- This suggests potential shared antigenic determinants or cross-reactivity patterns.
