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[Optic nerve finding in experimental retinitis induced by herpes simplex virus]
M Yoshioka1, H Ohkuma, M Uyama
1Department of Ophthalmology, Kansai Medical University.
Abstract:
We reported histological changes and viral localization of HSV-1 in the optic nerve by the ABC-method and electron microscopy, after intravitreal inoculation. There was neither histological change nor antigen deposition on the specimen of 3 days after inoculation. Some series of antigen-positive sites were successively found along the nerve fiber from the lamina cribrosa to the optic chiasma in the optic nerve on 4 days after inoculation. Round cell infiltration were also found around these sites, and these changes increased on the 8th day. Antigen-positive cells were mainly considered to be oligodendroglia and astrocytes. These results suggested that HSV-1 infected the optic nerve fiber via the retina. On the way to be the brain by axonal transport, they would infiltrate to the glial cells, where they could replicate and spread to neighbouring glial cells.
Insights
Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) infects the optic nerve via the retina. The virus spreads through nerve fibers to glial cells, causing inflammation and replication.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Virology
- Neuroscience
Context:
- Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) can cause optic nerve disease.
- Understanding HSV-1's intraocular spread is crucial for managing ocular infections.
Purpose:
- To investigate the histological changes and viral localization of HSV-1 within the optic nerve following intravitreal inoculation.
- To elucidate the pathway and cellular tropism of HSV-1 in the optic nerve.
Summary:
- Histological analysis and viral antigen detection revealed no changes at 3 days post-inoculation.
- By day 4, HSV-1 antigens were observed along optic nerve fibers from the lamina cribrosa to the optic chiasma.
- Round cell infiltration increased by day 8, primarily involving oligodendroglia and astrocytes, suggesting viral replication and spread within glial cells.
- Findings indicate HSV-1 infects the optic nerve via the retina and utilizes axonal transport to spread to the brain, infecting glial cells.
Impact:
- This study clarifies the pathogenesis of HSV-1 optic neuropathy.
- Provides insights into viral spread mechanisms within the central nervous system via ocular routes.
- Informs potential therapeutic strategies targeting glial cells or axonal transport in HSV-1 infections.