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Adipose Tissues from Human and Bat-Derived Cell Lines Support Ebola Virus Infection
Lauren Garnett1, Kaylie N Tran1, Zachary Schiffman1,2
1Special Pathogens Program, National Microbiology Laboratory Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3R2, Canada.
Viruses
|September 28, 2023
Summary
Ebola virus infects human and bat adipose tissue, replicating for 28 days without causing cell damage. This discovery suggests fat tissue may play a role in Ebola virus persistence and zoonotic spillover.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- Ebola virus (EBOV) is a zoonotic pathogen with unknown reservoirs between outbreaks.
- Previous research detected viral RNA and antibodies in various mammals but failed to isolate infectious EBOV.
- Understanding EBOV maintenance is crucial for preventing future epidemics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate adipose tissue as a potential reservoir for Ebola virus.
- To determine if adipose tissue supports EBOV replication and affects cell metabolism.
- To explore novel tissue tropisms and roles in pathogenesis and zoonotic spillover.
Main Methods:
- In vitro infection of human and bat (Eptesicus fuscus) brown adipose tissue cultures with wild-type Ebola virus.
- Long-term observation (28 days) of viral replication and cytopathic effects.
- Qualitative assessment of adipocyte metabolic alterations post-infection.
Main Results:
- Ebola virus replicated extensively in human and bat adipocytes for 28 days.
- No significant cytopathic effects were observed in infected adipose tissue cultures.
- Infected adipocytes showed altered lipid metabolism, indicative of lipolysis or browning.
Conclusions:
- Adipose tissue is susceptible to Ebola virus infection, supporting viral replication.
- This finding suggests adipose tissue as a potential, previously overlooked reservoir for EBOV.
- Adipocyte metabolism alterations may influence EBOV pathogenesis, transmission, and zoonotic spillover events.
