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An analysis of the peritonitis in acute murine reovirus infection
Abstract:
Reovirus 3 replicates in the mesothelial cells of the peritoneal cavity of infected neonatal Prince Henry mice. As virus replication becomes evident in these cells lymphocytes, polymorphonuclear leucocytes and especially mononuclear phagocytes increase in number in the peritoneal exudate and often surround the exfoliated and degenerating infected mesothelial cells. These events are accompanied by a polymorphonuclear leucocytosis, a lymphopenia and a transient monocytosis which reverses to a monocytopenia as virus replication appears in a variety of organs. Although in the peritoneal cavity the majority of exuded monocytes ingest virions and cellular debris a small proportion supports replication of reovirus 3. Polymorphonuclear leucocytes, on the other hand, did not exhibit evidence of reovirus replication.
Insights
Reovirus 3 replicates in mouse peritoneal mesothelial cells, triggering an immune response. Mononuclear phagocytes ingest the virus, but only a subset supports reovirus replication.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Reovirus 3 infection in neonatal mice affects peritoneal cells.
- Understanding the host-pathogen interaction is crucial for viral disease research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the replication sites of Reovirus 3 within the peritoneal cavity.
- To characterize the immune cell response to Reovirus 3 infection in mice.
Main Methods:
- Infection of neonatal Prince Henry mice with Reovirus 3.
- Analysis of peritoneal exudate cells and blood cell counts.
- Microscopic examination of infected mesothelial cells and immune cells.
Main Results:
- Reovirus 3 replicated in peritoneal mesothelial cells.
- Immune cell influx observed: lymphocytes, polymorphonuclear leucocytes, and mononuclear phagocytes.
- Mononuclear phagocytes ingested virions; a subset supported viral replication.
- Polymorphonuclear leucocytes did not show evidence of reovirus replication.
Conclusions:
- Mesothelial cells are a primary site for Reovirus 3 replication.
- Mononuclear phagocytes play a dual role in viral clearance and supporting replication.
- The immune cell dynamics reflect the progression of reovirus infection.