Detection and localization of viruses in human fetal intestinal organ cultures by immunofluorescence

Viral antigens from viruses belonging to four different viral groups were detected directly in human fetal intestinal organ cultures by the application of immunofluorescent techniques. The time of appearance and the cellular localization of fluorescent-stainable antigen varied with the type of virus under investigation. After infection with adenovirus or with adeno-associated virus, fluorescent-stainable antigen was seen in the epithelial cells of the explants, though no light microscopic changes could be observed. In infection with herpes simplex virus and echovirus, fluorescence was noted in both the epithelium and the lamina propria, along with histological changes throughout the organ culture. These techniques offer promise for the investigation of possible viral agents implicated in gastrointestinal disease.