Seroconversion against Epstein-Barr virus in two nonhuman primate species infected by the oropharyngeal route

Transforming Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) was inoculated into eight squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) by spraying of viral concentrates into the nose and throat. Virus was inoculated into three marmosets (two Saguinus oedipus and one Calithrix jacchus jacchus) by direct injection into nasopharyngeal tissue. Two of these squirrel monkeys seroconverted after repeated inoculation as determined by the presence of EBV-specific antibodies to early antigen and viral capsid antigen. One squirrel monkey had antibody to EBV nuclear antigen only. One S. oedipus marmoset also seroconverted. None of the animals developed disease. The results show that seroconversion can be accomplished in squirrel monkeys after spraying of EBV into the nasopharynx, and in marmosets by direct inoculation of the virus into nasopharyngeal tissue.