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Interaction between polymorphonuclear leukocytes and varicella-zoster virus-infected cells
Abstract:
The addition of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) to human fibroblasts infected with varicella-zoster virus (VZV) resulted in a reduced virus yield. The reduction was greater when antibodies specific for VZV were added to the system. Addition of VZV-specific antibodies without PMNL also reduced virus yield, but a 10-fold greater concentration of antibodies was required to effect the same reduction. PMNL adhered to and formed rosettes around VZV-infected cells. By electron microscopy, it was possible to observe activation of PMNL incubated with VZV-infected fibroblasts. Activated PMNL extended cytoplasmic projections toward virions and had vacuoles containing virions in various stages of digestion.
Insights
Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) and VZV-specific antibodies reduce varicella-zoster virus (VZV) yield. PMNL activation and phagocytosis of VZV contribute to this antiviral effect.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox and shingles.
- The immune response to VZV involves both cellular and humoral components.
- Understanding the interaction between immune cells and infected cells is crucial for antiviral strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antiviral effect of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) on VZV-infected human fibroblasts.
- To determine the synergistic effect of PMNL and VZV-specific antibodies in reducing VZV yield.
- To elucidate the mechanism of PMNL-mediated antiviral activity.
Main Methods:
- Co-incubation of VZV-infected human fibroblasts with PMNL and/or VZV-specific antibodies.
- Quantification of VZV yield via virus titration.
- Morphological analysis of PMNL-VZV-infected cell interactions using electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- PMNL significantly reduced VZV yield in infected fibroblasts.
- The addition of VZV-specific antibodies enhanced the antiviral effect of PMNL.
- VZV-specific antibodies alone also reduced VZV yield, but required higher concentrations.
- Electron microscopy revealed PMNL adherence, rosette formation, activation, and phagocytosis of VZV virions.
Conclusions:
- PMNL play a significant role in controlling VZV infection.
- A combination of PMNL and VZV-specific antibodies provides a potent antiviral effect.
- PMNL exert antiviral activity through direct interaction and phagocytosis of VZV virions.