Effect of African swine fever on lymphocyte mitogenesis

The effect of African swine fever virus replication on T and B lymphocytes was studied by mitogen-driven assays. Live attenuated isolates caused a marked suppressive effect which was dose- and time-dependent. This effect appeared to be mediated through a monokine. Live virulent isolates enhanced lymphocyte mitogenesis in most cases, with increased [3H]-thymidine uptake by T cells and increased Ig secretion by B cells. Killed preparation had no effect. These results are discussed in the light of the allergic response and immunopathological lesions produced by African swine fever virus infections.