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Genomic and biological variation among commonly used lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus strains
Abstract:
Six commonly used strains of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) [Armstrong (Arm) CA 1371, Arm E-350, WE, UBC, Traub and Pasteur C1PV 76001] were examined for distinctive genetic and biological properties. Agarose gel electrophoresis yielded no detectable differences among the L or S RNAs of these six strains. The RNase T1 fingerprint patterns of LCMV Arm CA 1371 and E-350 RNAs were similar, but in contrast, those of the WE, UBC, Traub and Pasteur strains differed from each other and from the pattern of LCMV Arm CA 1371 and E-350. There were also differences among LCMV strains in their biological properties. LCMV Arm CA 1371, E-350 and Pasteur caused severe vasculitis and focal necrotizing hepatitis in the livers of neonatally infected BALB/WEHI mice in contrast to LCMV WE which caused minimal lesions. LCMV Arm CA 1371 and E-350 were lethal for neonatal C3H/St mice. In contrast, LCMV WE, Traub and Pasteur induced persistent infections in C3H/St mice. Adult guinea-pigs resisted infection by Arm CA 1371, E-350, Traub and Pasteur but succumbed to WE and UBC LCMV strains. Our results show a wide variation in the RNA genomes of LCMV strains commonly used in research laboratories, and these genomic differences are accompanied by variations in the biological properties of LCMV strains.
Insights
Genetic and biological variations exist among common lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) strains. Differences in RNA fingerprints and host responses highlight the diversity of LCMV research strains.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is a significant pathogen with multiple strains used in research.
- Understanding strain-specific properties is crucial for interpreting experimental results and disease pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To genetically and biologically characterize six commonly used LCMV strains.
- To identify distinct properties that may influence experimental outcomes and disease models.
Main Methods:
- Agarose gel electrophoresis to analyze viral RNA.
- RNase T1 fingerprinting to assess RNA sequence variations.
- Infection studies in mice (BALB/WEHI, C3H/St) and guinea pigs to evaluate biological properties and pathogenicity.
Main Results:
- No detectable differences in L or S RNA segments by agarose gel electrophoresis.
- RNase T1 fingerprinting revealed distinct patterns among LCMV strains, with Armstrong (Arm) CA 1371 and E-350 showing similarity, while WE, UBC, Traub, and Pasteur differed.
- Significant variations in biological properties, including pathogenicity (vasculitis, hepatitis, lethality) and host susceptibility across different mouse and guinea pig models.
Conclusions:
- LCMV strains commonly used in research exhibit considerable variation in their RNA genomes and biological behavior.
- These genomic and phenotypic differences underscore the importance of strain selection and characterization in LCMV research.