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Abnormal glucose metabolism in murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV)-infected mice
Abstract:
Five strains of male and female mice were infected with salivary gland-passaged murine cytomegalovirus (SG-MCMV) intraperitoneally. Although none of them became hyperglycemic, 13-30% of BALB/c male and female, ICR/Slc male and female and C57BL/6J male mice had abnormal values in glucose tolerance tests (GTT) 14 to 30 day post infection. Serum insulin levels in BALB/c male mice were low and infective virus was detected in the pancreas during the acute phase of infection. Histopathology showed mild edematous changes with inflammatory cell infiltrations in the pancreas. Viral antigen was located in acinar cells and occasionally in beta cells by an immunofluorescence test.
Insights
Murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infection in mice caused abnormal glucose tolerance tests, indicating potential pancreatic dysfunction. Researchers observed low insulin levels and viral presence in the pancreas, suggesting MCMV impacts glucose metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) is a common viral pathogen.
- Viral infections can impact host metabolic functions.
- The pancreas is a key organ for glucose regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of salivary gland-passaged MCMV (SG-MCMV) infection on glucose homeostasis in mice.
- To examine pancreatic pathology and viral presence during acute SG-MCMV infection.
Main Methods:
- Mice of different strains (BALB/c, ICR/Slc, C57BL/6J) were infected intraperitoneally with SG-MCMV.
- Glucose tolerance tests (GTT) were performed 14-30 days post-infection.
- Serum insulin levels, pancreatic histopathology, and viral antigen distribution were analyzed.
Main Results:
- While no hyperglycemia was observed, 13-30% of infected mice exhibited abnormal GTT results.
- BALB/c male mice showed low serum insulin levels.
- Infective MCMV was detected in the pancreas, with viral antigens localized in acinar and beta cells, accompanied by mild inflammation.
Conclusions:
- SG-MCMV infection can lead to impaired glucose tolerance in mice.
- The pancreas is a target organ for MCMV, potentially affecting beta cell function and insulin secretion.
- Further research is warranted to understand the long-term metabolic consequences of MCMV infection.