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Mouse sperm can horizontally transmit type C viruses
Abstract:
Washed, non-viable sperm from AKR and NZB mice contain infectious murine type C viruses (MuLV), whereas similarly treated sperm from Balb/c and probably C57Bl/6 mice do not. Interaction of washed, viable AKR, Balb/c and NZB sperm with tissue culture cells leads to a transfer of infectious MuLV to these cells. The most likely mechanism is infection by virus closely associated with the sperm. Another possible mechanism is the introduction of proviral DNA. These experiments indicate that type C viruses can be found with mouse sperm. They suggest sperm could horizontally transmit these MuLV to animals during copulation and to the germ line of mice during penetration of ova.
Insights
Infectious murine type C viruses (MuLV) were found in AKR and NZB mouse sperm, but not in Balb/c. Sperm can transmit these retroviruses to cells and potentially to offspring, suggesting a role in horizontal MuLV transmission.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Reproductive Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Murine type C viruses (MuLV) are retroviruses known to infect various mouse strains.
- The potential role of sperm in the transmission of infectious agents, including MuLV, has not been fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of infectious MuLV in mouse sperm from different strains.
- To determine if mouse sperm can transmit infectious MuLV to other cells.
- To explore potential mechanisms of MuLV transmission via sperm.
Main Methods:
- Washed, non-viable and viable sperm from AKR, NZB, Balb/c, and C57Bl/6 mice were used.
- Sperm were co-cultured with tissue culture cells to assess MuLV transfer.
- Infectious MuLV was detected using appropriate assays.
Main Results:
- Infectious MuLV was detected in non-viable sperm of AKR and NZB mice, but not Balb/c or C57Bl/6.
- Viable sperm from AKR, NZB, and Balb/c mice transmitted infectious MuLV to tissue culture cells.
- Virus associated with sperm or proviral DNA are proposed as transmission mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Mouse sperm can harbor and transmit infectious MuLV.
- Sperm may play a role in the horizontal transmission of MuLV between animals during copulation.
- Sperm could potentially transmit MuLV to the germ line during fertilization.