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Encephalomyocarditis (EMC) virus-induced testicular lesion in BALB/c mice
M Shigesato1, K Hirasawa, M Takeda
1Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tokyo, Japan.
Abstract:
Characteristics of encephalomyocarditis (EMC) virus-induced testicular lesions were investigated in 4- and 8-week-old BALB/c male mice after intraperitoneal (i.p.) and intratesticular (left) (i.t.) inoculation of the D variant of EMC virus (EMC-D). Apart from variation in severity and incidence, the histopathological nature of the resultant testicular lesion was similar in all infected mice, and was characterized by degeneration and necrosis of germinal cells and spermatogonia with inflammatory infiltration. Almost all the inoculated left testes of the i.t. group developed marked lesions. In general, the virus titre in the testis and incidence of testicular lesions were higher in 4-week-old mice than in 8-week-old mice. In addition, testicular lesions developed earlier and with a higher incidence in the PBS-inoculated right testis of the i.t. group than in either testis of the i.p. group of the same age.
Insights
Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMC-D) causes testicular lesions in mice, characterized by germ cell degeneration and inflammation. Younger mice showed more severe effects and earlier lesion development.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Reproductive Pathology
Background:
- Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMC) is an RNA virus with a broad host range.
- Testicular damage can lead to male infertility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize testicular lesions induced by EMC virus (EMC-D) in BALB/c mice.
- To compare lesion development in different age groups and inoculation routes.
Main Methods:
- BALB/c mice (4- and 8-week-old) were inoculated with EMC-D via intraperitoneal (i.p.) or intratesticular (i.t.) routes.
- Histopathological examination and virus titration were performed on testicular tissues.
Main Results:
- EMC-D infection caused testicular lesions with germ cell degeneration, necrosis, and inflammation in all infected mice.
- Younger (4-week-old) mice exhibited higher virus titers and lesion incidence compared to older (8-week-old) mice.
- Intratesticular inoculation resulted in earlier and more frequent lesions, even in the contralateral testis, compared to intraperitoneal inoculation.
Conclusions:
- EMC-D infection induces significant testicular pathology in mice.
- Age and inoculation route influence the severity and progression of EMC-D-induced testicular lesions.
- The study highlights EMC virus as a potential threat to male reproductive health.