Marrow-dependent cells depleted by 89Sr mediate genetic resistance to herpes simplex virus type 1 infection in mice

Adult mice resistant to infection with 10(6) plaque-forming units of a virulent strain of herpes simplex virus type 1 were treated with 89Sr to abrogate marrow-dependent cell functions. Treated mice were found to be much more susceptible to the herpes simplex virus type 1 infection than untreated mice. The virus persisted in the visceral tissues of 89Sr-treated mice for 3 or more days postinfection but not in those of untreated mice. The virus also spread to the spinal cords of treated but not untreated mice. A marrow-dependent cell appeared to mediate resistance to herpes simplex virus type 1 by controlling the infection early after inoculation and not allowing the infection spread to the central nervous system.