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Updated: Feb 24, 2026
A Murine Model of Dengue Virus-induced Acute Viral Encephalitis-like Disease
Published on: April 28, 2019
Human immune system mouse models of Ebola virus infection
Jessica R Spengler1, Joseph Prescott2, Heinz Feldmann2
1Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
Abstract:
Human immune system (HIS) mice, immunodeficient mice engrafted with human cells (with or without donor-matched tissue), offer a unique opportunity to study pathogens that cause disease predominantly or exclusively in humans. Several HIS mouse models have recently been used to study Ebola virus (EBOV) infection and disease. The results of these studies are encouraging and support further development and use of these models in Ebola research. HIS mice provide a small animal model to study EBOV isolates, investigate early viral interactions with human immune cells, screen vaccines and therapeutics that modulate the immune system, and investigate sequelae in survivors. Here we review existing models, discuss their use in pathogenesis studies and therapeutic screening, and highlight considerations for study design and analysis. Finally, we point out caveats to current models, and recommend future efforts for modeling EBOV infection in HIS mice.
Insights
Human immune system (HIS) mice are valuable tools for studying Ebola virus (EBOV) infections. These models enable research into viral interactions, vaccine development, and long-term effects in survivors.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Human immune system (HIS) mice are immunodeficient mice engrafted with human cells.
- These models are crucial for studying pathogens that exclusively infect humans, such as Ebola virus (EBOV).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing HIS mouse models for EBOV research.
- To discuss their application in pathogenesis studies and therapeutic screening.
- To highlight considerations for study design and analysis.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on HIS mouse models and EBOV infection studies.
- Analysis of HIS mouse model utility in understanding viral pathogenesis and immune responses.
- Evaluation of HIS mice for screening vaccines and therapeutics.
Main Results:
- HIS mouse models have shown encouraging results in studying EBOV infection.
- These models facilitate investigation of early viral interactions with human immune cells.
- HIS mice are useful for studying sequelae in EBOV survivors.
Conclusions:
- HIS mouse models are a promising small animal model for Ebola virus research.
- Further development and careful study design are recommended for optimal use of HIS mice in EBOV modeling.
- Caveats of current models are identified, with future efforts recommended for improved EBOV infection modeling.
