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Published on: May 24, 2011
Kinetics of liver macrophages (Kupffer cells) in SIV-infected macaques
Muhammad H Ahsan1, Amy F Gill, Xavier Alvarez
1Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, 18703 Three Rivers Road, Covington, LA 70433, USA.
Abstract:
Since the liver drains antigens from the intestinal tract, and since the intestinal tract is a major site of viral replication, we examined the dynamics of liver macrophages (Kupffer cells) throughout SIV infection. Absolute numbers of Kupffer cells increased in the livers in acute infection, and in animals with AIDS. Significantly higher percentages of proliferating (BrdU+) Kupffer cells were detected in acute infection and in AIDS with similar trends in blood monocytes. Significantly higher percentages of apoptotic (AC3+) Kupffer cells were also found in acute and AIDS stages. However, productively infected cells were not detected in liver of 41/42 animals examined, despite abundant infected cells in gut and lymph nodes of all animals. Increased rates of Kupffer cell proliferation resulting in an increase in Kupffer cells without productive infection indicate SIV infection affects Kupffer cells, but the liver does not appear to be a major site of productive viral replication.
Insights
Simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection increases liver macrophage (Kupffer cell) proliferation and apoptosis, but the liver is not a primary site for viral replication.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Hepatology
Background:
- The liver processes antigens from the gut, a key site for viral replication.
- Liver macrophages, or Kupffer cells, play a crucial role in immune responses within the liver.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the behavior and dynamics of Kupffer cells during Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV) infection.
- To determine if the liver is a significant site for productive SIV replication.
Main Methods:
- Quantification of Kupffer cell numbers in liver tissues.
- Assessment of Kupffer cell proliferation using BrdU staining.
- Evaluation of Kupffer cell apoptosis using AC3 staining.
- Detection of productive viral infection in liver tissues.
Main Results:
- Kupffer cell numbers increased in the liver during acute SIV infection and in animals with AIDS.
- Elevated percentages of proliferating and apoptotic Kupffer cells were observed in acute and AIDS stages.
- Productively SIV-infected Kupffer cells were rarely detected in the liver, despite widespread infection in gut and lymph nodes.
Conclusions:
- SIV infection significantly impacts Kupffer cell dynamics, increasing their proliferation and apoptosis.
- The liver does not appear to be a major site for productive SIV replication, despite Kupffer cell involvement.
