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Updated: Jun 30, 2026
10:21
In Vivo Imaging Systems (IVIS) Detection of a Neuro-Invasive Encephalitic Virus
Published on: December 2, 2012
Río Negro virus (Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus complex) shows pathogenic potential in a permissive murine
Luciana A Fassola1,2, Yamila Gazzoni3,4, Glenda D Martin Molinero5,6
1Centro de Investigación y Desarrollo en Inmunología y Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIDIE), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas/Universidad Católica de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology
|June 29, 2026
Summary
Río Negro virus (RNV) can cause severe systemic and neuroinvasive disease in infant mice, challenging its historical avirulent classification. This study highlights RNV
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Río Negro virus (RNV), part of the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) complex, was considered avirulent.
- Its pathogenic potential in vulnerable populations remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pathogenesis of RNV in a model of developmental immune immaturity.
- To characterize RNV's systemic and neuroinvasive capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Infection of infant C57BL/6 mice with RNV.
- Assessment of viral dissemination, splenic immune architecture, and central nervous system pathology.
- Analysis of viral replication, astrocyte activation, and cytokine profiles in the brain.
Main Results:
- RNV infection led to viremia, systemic spread, and splenic immune disruption.
- Significant neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration were observed in the brain.
- Viral replication correlated with astrocyte activation and elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Conclusions:
- RNV can induce systemic and neuroinvasive disease in immunologically immature hosts.
- Findings necessitate re-evaluation of RNV's pathogenic potential within the VEEV complex.
- Supports considering RNV in underrecognized febrile illnesses in endemic areas.
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