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Updated: Sep 4, 2026
Influenza A Virus Studies in a Mouse Model of Infection
Published on: September 7, 2017
Method for accelerated identification of arboviruses after inoculation of mice
Abstract:
Sequential titration of infective virus and complement-fixing antigen in brain and liver of suckling mice infected with the following virus strains-Dugbe (a new arbovirus), Congo (related to Crimean hemorrhagic fever virus), yellow fever, dengue 1 and dengue 2-showed a progressive increase in titer after infection. High titers of both infective virus and complement-fixing antigen were demonstrated long before the mice showed clinical signs of infection. It is suggested that earlier isolation and identification of arboviruses from clinical and field specimens can be made if serological tests are done before mice are moribund.
Insights
Early detection of arboviruses like Dugbe and dengue in mice is possible. Titers of infective virus and antigen rise before clinical signs, suggesting serological tests can aid earlier identification.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Arboviruses, including Dugbe, Congo, yellow fever, and dengue virus strains, pose significant public health challenges.
- Understanding viral kinetics and antigen presence in infected hosts is crucial for timely diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the sequential changes in infective virus and complement-fixing antigen titers in suckling mice infected with various arboviruses.
- To determine the correlation between viral load, antigen presence, and the onset of clinical signs.
Main Methods:
- Sequential titration of infective virus and complement-fixing antigen in brain and liver tissues of suckling mice.
- Infection of mice with Dugbe, Congo, yellow fever, dengue 1, and dengue 2 virus strains.
- Monitoring of clinical signs in infected mice.
Main Results:
- A progressive increase in both infective virus and complement-fixing antigen titers was observed post-infection.
- High viral and antigen titers were detected significantly before the appearance of clinical symptoms.
- Specific virus strains studied included Dugbe, Congo, yellow fever, dengue 1, and dengue 2.
Conclusions:
- Early isolation and identification of arboviruses from clinical and field specimens are feasible.
- Serological tests performed prior to the moribund stage can enhance arbovirus detection.
