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Updated: May 6, 2026
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Ex Vivo Infection of Murine Epidermis with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Published on: August 24, 2015
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[Destructive changes in the mice testes in retrograde infection with herpes simplex virus]
Urologiia (Moscow, Russia : 1999)
|October 29, 2013
Summary
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection in male mice causes significant testicular damage, including reduced sperm production and cell death. These findings highlight the potential for irreversible infertility following HSV retrograde infection of the male reproductive system.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Virology
- Pathology
Context:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is linked to male genitourinary inflammation and infertility.
- Limited understanding exists regarding HSV's testicular pathways, spermatogenic tissue damage, and impact on spermatogenesis.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the effects of retrograde HSV infection on mouse spermatogenesis.
- To investigate viral distribution, testicular damage, and cellular changes post-infection.
Summary:
- HSV inoculation into seminiferous tubules led to viral protein presence in all epithelial layers.
- Viral protein peaked by day 6, while HSV DNA persisted throughout the infection.
- Significant testicular weight reduction, orchitis, and destructive changes in spermatogenic tissue were observed.
- Sertoli cell depletion occurred, suggesting irreversible damage to spermatogenic tissue.
Impact:
- Retrograde HSV infection causes substantial testicular structural damage and cell death.
- The study indicates potentially irreversible degenerative changes in infected testes.
- Findings underscore HSV's detrimental effects on male fertility and reproductive health.
