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Impaired function of bovine alveolar macrophages infected with parainfluenza-3 virus

Insights

Bovine alveolar macrophages infected with parainfluenza-3 virus show reduced adherence and phagocytosis of antibody-coated sheep erythrocytes. This viral infection also significantly decreases intracellular acid phosphatase concentrations in these immune cells.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Immunology
  • Cellular Immunology
  • Virology

Background:

  • Bovine alveolar macrophages (BAM) are crucial for respiratory defense in cattle.
  • Parainfluenza-3 (PI-3) virus is a significant respiratory pathogen in cattle.
  • Viral infections can impair macrophage function, impacting host immunity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of PI-3 virus infection on the function of bovine alveolar macrophages.
  • To assess changes in adherence, phagocytosis, bacterial killing, and enzyme activity post-infection.

Main Methods:

  • BAM were isolated from cattle and infected with PI-3 virus.
  • Macrophage adherence, phagocytosis of sheep erythrocytes (EAC) and latex particles, bacterial killing, and acid phosphatase levels were measured over 168 hours.
  • The effect of antiviral serum on infected BAM phagocytosis was evaluated.

Main Results:

  • PI-3 virus infection significantly reduced BAM adherence to surfaces.
  • Phagocytosis of EAC by infected BAM was significantly reduced, while latex particle phagocytosis remained unaffected.
  • Intracellular acid phosphatase concentrations were significantly lower in infected BAM.
  • Antiviral serum exacerbated the inhibition of EAC phagocytosis in infected BAM.

Conclusions:

  • PI-3 virus infection impairs key functions of bovine alveolar macrophages, including adherence and phagocytosis.
  • The observed decrease in acid phosphatase suggests altered cellular metabolism or lysosomal function.
  • These macrophage dysfunctions may contribute to the pathogenesis of PI-3 virus-associated respiratory disease in cattle.

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