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Search for type-C oncornavirus-related genetic information in tissues from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Abstract:
Single-stranded 3H-DNA probes complementary to the RNA of Rauscher murine leukemia virus and of simian sarcoma virus were prepared using techniques that permitted complete transcription of the viral genome of each virus. These probes were used in DNA-DNA hybridization studies with the cellular DNA from uncultured specimens of spleens and placentas of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). No proviral DNA sequences related to these viruses were detected in these tissues. The results presented here do not support previously reported antigenic data implicating type-C oncornavirus infection of these organs in SLE.
Insights
This study found no evidence of Rauscher murine leukemia virus or simian sarcoma virus DNA in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) tissues. These findings do not support the theory of type-C oncornavirus infection in SLE patients.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Previous antigenic studies suggested a link between type-C oncornavirus infection and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
- Specific viruses implicated included Rauscher murine leukemia virus and simian sarcoma virus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of specific viral DNA sequences in SLE patient tissues.
- To determine if Rauscher murine leukemia virus or simian sarcoma virus proviral DNA is detectable in SLE-affected organs.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of single-stranded 3H-DNA probes complementary to Rauscher murine leukemia virus and simian sarcoma virus RNA.
- Complete transcription of viral genomes to create the DNA probes.
- DNA-DNA hybridization assays using cellular DNA from SLE patient spleens and placentas.
Main Results:
- No proviral DNA sequences related to Rauscher murine leukemia virus were detected.
- No proviral DNA sequences related to simian sarcoma virus were detected.
- Absence of detectable viral DNA in SLE tissues contradicts prior antigenic findings.
Conclusions:
- The study does not support the hypothesis of type-C oncornavirus (Rauscher murine leukemia virus or simian sarcoma virus) involvement in SLE.
- Antigenic data implicating these viruses in SLE pathogenesis is not corroborated by this molecular hybridization study.