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Murine coronaviruses: the histopathology of disease induced by intranasal inoculation
Research in Veterinary Science
|May 1, 1981
Abstract:
Mice inoculated intranasally with murine coronaviruses (mouse hepatitis viruses) were killed daily for seven days. Lung and liver sections stained by the immunoperoxidase technique indicated that with three of the four strains examined viral localisation and replication in the lung preceded that found in the liver. Thus, infection by the respiratory route may be of importance in the transmission of these viruses.
Insights
Murine coronaviruses infect mouse lungs before the liver, suggesting respiratory infection is key for mouse hepatitis virus transmission. This study tracked viral spread in mice over seven days.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Murine coronaviruses, including mouse hepatitis viruses (MHV), are significant pathogens in laboratory mice.
- Understanding the transmission routes and organ tropism of MHV is crucial for animal research integrity.
- Previous studies have indicated varied routes of infection and dissemination for different MHV strains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal and spatial dynamics of murine coronavirus infection in mice following intranasal inoculation.
- To determine the primary site of viral replication and localization in the early stages of infection.
- To assess the potential role of the respiratory route in the transmission of mouse hepatitis viruses.
Main Methods:
- Mice were inoculated intranasally with four different strains of murine coronaviruses.
- Animals were euthanized daily for seven consecutive days post-inoculation.
- Lung and liver tissues were collected and analyzed using the immunoperoxidase technique for viral detection and localization.
Main Results:
- Viral localization and replication were observed in the lungs of infected mice.
- For three out of the four MHV strains tested, lung infection and replication consistently preceded liver involvement.
- The immunoperoxidase staining confirmed the presence and spread of the virus within the respiratory tract.
Conclusions:
- The respiratory tract serves as an important initial site for murine coronavirus replication.
- Infection via the respiratory route appears to be a significant factor in the transmission of mouse hepatitis viruses.
- These findings highlight the importance of controlling airborne transmission in mouse colonies.