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Mode of protection of mice against herpes simplex virus type 2 infection by Propionibacterium
Abstract:
We compared various strains of Propionibacterium with regard to protection of young adult mice against lethal infection with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Propionibacterium acnes, P. granulosum, and P. avidum were protective, while P. acidi-propionici and P. lymphophilum were ineffective. The protective effect proved to be in the cell wall fraction. Attempts were made to elucidate possible mechanisms of the protection using both effective and ineffective strains. The results strongly suggest that induction of interferon rather than activation of macrophages and natural killer cells by Propionibacterium pretreatment plays a crucial role, directly or indirectly, in protection against infection by herpes simplex virus. Propionibacterium only moderately protected newborn mice against HSV-2 infection.
Insights
Certain Propionibacterium strains protect mice against herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection, primarily through cell wall components. Interferon induction appears key, not macrophage or natural killer cell activation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Virology
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) causes significant human infections.
- Propionibacterium species are bacteria found on human skin.
- The potential of Propionibacterium for antiviral protection is under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the protective effects of different Propionibacterium strains against HSV-2 infection in mice.
- To identify the component responsible for protection.
- To elucidate the mechanism underlying this protection.
Main Methods:
- Young adult mice were infected with HSV-2 and pretreated with various Propionibacterium strains.
- Cell wall fractions were isolated and tested for protective activity.
- Mechanisms involving interferon induction, macrophage activation, and natural killer cell activity were assessed.
Main Results:
- Propionibacterium acnes, P. granulosum, and P. avidum demonstrated significant protection against lethal HSV-2 infection.
- P. acidi-propionici and P. lymphophilum were ineffective.
- The protective effect was localized to the cell wall fraction.
- Interferon induction was identified as the primary mechanism, with limited roles for macrophage and natural killer cell activation.
- Moderate protection was observed in newborn mice.
Conclusions:
- Specific Propionibacterium strains, particularly via their cell wall components, offer protection against HSV-2.
- Interferon induction is the principal mechanism mediating this antiviral effect.
- These findings suggest a potential role for Propionibacterium in managing HSV-2 infections.