Macrophages as target cells for Mayaro virus infection: involvement of reactive oxygen species in the inflammatory

Mariana G Cavalheiro1, Leandro Silva DA Costa1, Holmes S Campos1

  • 1Instituto de Bioquímica Médica Leopoldo de Meis, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, Bloco E, Sala 18, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brasil.

Insights

Mayaro virus (MAYV) infects macrophages, causing cell death and triggering inflammation through reactive oxygen species (ROS) and TNF. This study reveals key mechanisms in MAYV-induced arthritis pathogenesis.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Immunology
  • Pathogenesis

Background:

  • Alphaviruses cause global public health issues, with Old World types inducing arthritis and New World types causing encephalitis.
  • Mayaro virus (MAYV), found in South America, is phylogenetically linked to Old World alphaviruses but causes arthralgia, presenting a unique case.
  • The molecular and cellular basis of MAYV-induced arthritis remains poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the cellular targets of Mayaro virus (MAYV) infection.
  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying MAYV-induced arthritis pathogenesis.
  • To explore the role of macrophages and inflammatory mediators in MAYV infection.

Main Methods:

  • Investigated macrophage susceptibility to MAYV infection.
  • Assessed MAYV-induced apoptosis in macrophages.
  • Measured TNF cytokine expression following MAYV infection.
  • Quantified reactive oxygen species (ROS) production during MAYV infection.
  • Evaluated the effect of antioxidant treatment on TNF secretion.

Main Results:

  • Macrophages were identified as target cells for MAYV, leading to apoptosis.
  • MAYV replication induced TNF expression in macrophages, contributing to an inflammatory profile.
  • Increased ROS production was observed early in infection, preceding TNF secretion.
  • Antioxidant treatment post-infection significantly inhibited TNF secretion, implicating ROS in MAYV-induced inflammation.

Conclusions:

  • Macrophages are crucial cellular players in Mayaro virus pathogenesis.
  • Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a significant role in mediating inflammation during MAYV infection.
  • Understanding MAYV's interaction with macrophages and ROS provides insights into arthritis development and potential therapeutic targets.

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