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Lung and lymph node explants to study the interaction between host cells and canine distemper virus
Omar Gonzales-Viera1, Kevin D Woolard2, M Kevin Keel2
1Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616-5270, USA; California Animal Health and Food Safety (CAHFS), Davis Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616-5270, USA.
Research in Veterinary Science
|December 2, 2022
Summary
Canine distemper virus infects lung macrophages first, then spreads to lymph nodes. A new dog tissue explant model effectively shows viral entry and replication in these cells.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Canine distemper virus (CDV) causes a fatal disease in dogs and wild carnivores.
- CDV primarily infects the respiratory and lymphoid systems.
- Understanding CDV's initial cellular targets is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the initial cellular entry and replication of CDV in canine lung and lymph node tissues.
- To validate a novel canine tissue explant model for studying CDV pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Canine lung and lymph node explants were cultured with CDV.
- Immunohistochemistry was used to detect CDV antigens and macrophage markers (CD163, SLAM).
- Viral replication and syncytia formation were monitored over time.
Main Results:
- CDV antigens were detected on CD163- and SLAM-positive alveolar macrophages in lung explants.
- Progressive viral replication and syncytia formation were observed in lymph node explants.
- Explant model demonstrated similar viral replication and cell interactions as seen in live animals.
Conclusions:
- Alveolar macrophages are likely the first cells infected by CDV in the lungs.
- The canine tissue explant model is a valuable tool for studying CDV and other morbilliviruses.
- This model aids in evaluating viral entry and replication in susceptible carnivores.
