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Alterations in iron levels in Japanese encephalitis virus infection
A Mathur1, M Bharadwaj, U C Chaturvedi
1Postgraduate Department of Microbiology, K.G. Medical College, Lucknow, India.
Abstract:
Following Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infection in mice the serum iron concentration decreased; the decline started from day 3 and persisted up to day 9 postinfection. No significant difference was found in the total iron-binding capacity of serum in JEV-infected mice compared with that of controls. The hypoferraemia was associated with accumulation of iron in the spleen. Large amounts of stainable iron were demonstrated in splenic macrophages from day 5. This was accompanied by transient anaemia. Thus, the hypoferraemia, following intraperitoneal inoculation of JEV, was attributed to a block in the release of iron from the RES.
Insights
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infection in mice causes a drop in serum iron, with iron accumulating in the spleen and a block in iron release from the reticuloendothelial system (RES). This leads to hypoferremia and transient anemia.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Hematology
Background:
- Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a significant cause of viral encephalitis globally.
- Understanding the host's metabolic response to JEV infection is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the changes in iron metabolism following Japanese encephalitis virus infection in a murine model.
- To determine the impact of JEV on serum iron levels, iron-binding capacity, and iron distribution.
Main Methods:
- Mice were inoculated intraperitoneally with JEV.
- Serum iron concentration and total iron-binding capacity were measured at various time points post-infection.
- Iron content in the spleen was assessed using stainable iron.
- Hematological parameters, including anemia, were monitored.
Main Results:
- Serum iron concentration significantly decreased from day 3 to day 9 post-JEV infection.
- Total iron-binding capacity remained unchanged in JEV-infected mice compared to controls.
- Increased iron accumulation was observed in splenic macrophages starting from day 5.
- A transient period of anemia was noted in infected mice.
Conclusions:
- JEV infection induces hypoferremia in mice, characterized by reduced serum iron levels.
- The observed hypoferremia is attributed to impaired iron release from the reticuloendothelial system (RES), leading to splenic iron sequestration.
- These findings highlight a specific host-pathogen interaction affecting iron homeostasis during JEV infection.