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Infections of susceptible and resistant mouse strains with herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2
Abstract:
The spread of HSV of type 1 and 2 was investigated after intraperitoneal, intraplantar and intracerebral infections of resistant (C57/bl) and susceptible (NMRI) mice. The virus spreads after i.p. infection to the spleen and the liver to the same extent in both strains of mice. However, virus is eliminated earlier in resistant mice. Intracerebral infections revealed a peculiar type of resistance of C57/bl mice especially for type 2 of HSV. HSV multiplies in the thymus at the early stage of infection and can be detected in this organ in sick mice of NMRI strain. HSV-1 and 2 can be detected in the spinal cord of C57/bl mice without sickness or death of these animals.
Insights
This study shows that resistant mice clear herpes simplex virus (HSV) faster after infection. Even when infected intracerebrally, resistant mice exhibit unique resistance, particularly to HSV-2.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Animal Models
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2 cause significant human disease.
- Understanding viral spread and host resistance is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the differential spread and clearance of HSV-1 and HSV-2 in resistant (C57/bl) and susceptible (NMRI) mouse strains.
- To characterize the immune response and viral dissemination following various infection routes.
Main Methods:
- Intraperitoneal, intraplantar, and intracerebral infections were performed in C57/bl and NMRI mice.
- Viral load was monitored in various organs, including the spleen, liver, thymus, and spinal cord.
Main Results:
- HSV spread to the spleen and liver similarly in both strains after intraperitoneal infection, but resistant mice cleared the virus earlier.
- C57/bl mice demonstrated unique resistance to intracerebral HSV-2 infection.
- HSV replicated in the thymus of susceptible NMRI mice but not in resistant C57/bl mice.
- HSV-1 and HSV-2 were detected in the spinal cords of resistant mice without causing illness.
Conclusions:
- Mouse strain significantly influences HSV-1 and HSV-2 dissemination and clearance dynamics.
- C57/bl mice possess distinct resistance mechanisms against HSV, particularly HSV-2, even in the central nervous system.
- Further research into these resistance mechanisms could inform therapeutic strategies against HSV infections.