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Published on: August 13, 2013

Virus-induced alterations in homeostasis: alteration in differentiated functions of infected cells in vivo

M B Oldstone, Y N Sinha, P Blount

    Science (New York, N.Y.)
    |December 10, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    Noncytopathic lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infects pituitary cells, reducing growth hormone synthesis and causing growth retardation and hypoglycemia in mice. This demonstrates how viruses can disrupt homeostasis without causing cell death.

    Area of Science:

    • Virology
    • Endocrinology
    • Pathology

    Background:

    • Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is a noncytopathic virus.
    • Pituitary gland dysfunction can lead to hormonal imbalances and growth disorders.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the effect of noncytopathic LCMV infection on the murine pituitary gland.
    • To understand the mechanism by which a noncytopathic virus can cause disease.

    Main Methods:

    • Infection of mice with a noncytopathic strain of LCMV.
    • Analysis of pituitary gland morphology and hormone synthesis.
    • Assessment of growth and blood glucose levels in infected mice.

    Main Results:

    • LCMV specifically targeted the anterior pituitary lobe in mice.
    • Virus replication occurred in growth hormone-producing cells.
    • Diminished growth hormone synthesis led to retarded growth and hypoglycemia.
    • No evidence of cell necrosis or inflammation was observed.

    Conclusions:

    • Noncytopathic viruses can disrupt cellular function (e.g., hormone synthesis) without causing cell death.
    • This disruption of "luxury" functions can impair homeostasis and lead to disease.
    • LCMV provides a model for understanding virus-induced disease through functional impairment rather than direct cell lysis.

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