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Clinical and pathologic findings in infant rhesus macaques infected with SIVsmm by maternal transmission
S A Klumpp1, F J Novembre, D C Anderson
1Yerkes Regional Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322.
Abstract:
Three of 12 infant rhesus macaques became infected at 9 to 12 months of age with SIVsmm through maternal-infant transmission. Clinical problems seen in one or more infants included decreased CD4 cells, hypergammaglobulinemia, diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, bacterial infections, and terminal respiratory and CNS problems. Gross and histologic lesions due to both primary SIV infection and opportunistic infections were observed. The SIV-infected infants had clinical, immunologic, and pathologic similarities to those seen in pediatric HIV infection.
Insights
Maternal-infant transmission of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIVsmm) in infant macaques caused severe health issues, mirroring pediatric HIV infection. This highlights SIVsmm
Area of Science:
- Primate models
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Maternal-infant transmission of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIVsmm) can lead to infection in infants.
- Infant rhesus macaques are a relevant model for studying pediatric viral infections.
- Understanding SIVsmm pathogenesis in infants is crucial for developing interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical, immunological, and pathological outcomes of SIVsmm infection in infant rhesus macaques acquired through maternal-infant transmission.
- To establish parallels between SIVsmm infection in macaques and pediatric HIV infection in humans.
Main Methods:
- Infant rhesus macaques were monitored for SIVsmm infection following maternal transmission.
- Clinical signs, immunological parameters (e.g., CD4 cell counts), and gross/histologic lesions were assessed.
- Opportunistic infections were identified in infected infants.
Main Results:
- Three out of 12 infant macaques acquired SIVsmm infection via maternal transmission.
- Infected infants exhibited decreased CD4 cell counts, hypergammaglobulinemia, diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, and secondary bacterial infections.
- Terminal respiratory and central nervous system complications were observed in some SIV-infected infants.
- Gross and histological examination revealed lesions from both primary SIV infection and opportunistic pathogens.
Conclusions:
- SIVsmm infection in infant macaques acquired through maternal transmission results in significant clinical, immunological, and pathological abnormalities.
- The observed similarities between SIV-infected macaques and pediatric HIV-infected humans underscore the utility of this model for studying pediatric AIDS.
- Further research is warranted to explore therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating SIV/HIV infection in infants.