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Published on: October 7, 2011
Ultrastructural study of mouse thymus virus replication
R Athanassious1, M Brunet, G Lussier
1Centre de Recherche en Virologie, Institut Armand-Frappier, Laval, Québec, Canada.
Abstract:
With the exception of thymocytes, no other cell types have been reported to be involved in mouse thymus virus (MTV) infection. The ultrastructure of thymuses of mice infected with MTV were examined. The earliest sign of infection was detected 5 days p.i.; lymphocytes, epithelial and phagocytic (macrophages) reticular cells were shown to be affected. Viral particles and filamentous structures were present in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm of these cells. At more severe stages of cellular necrosis, 6 and 7 days p.i., cytoplasmic granulation as well as loss in definition of cytoplasmic organelles became apparent. This was followed by nuclear degradation and aggregation of cells. After 9 days p.i. necrotic lesions were still observed but viral particles were no longer detectable. This study provides evidence of the susceptibility of macrophages to MTV.
Insights
Mouse thymus virus (MTV) infects lymphocytes, epithelial cells, and macrophages. This study reveals macrophages are susceptible to MTV infection, impacting thymus ultrastructure.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Mouse thymus virus (MTV) is known to infect thymocytes.
- The cellular targets of MTV beyond thymocytes have not been extensively documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural changes in the mouse thymus following MTV infection.
- To identify specific cell types susceptible to MTV infection.
Main Methods:
- Examination of mouse thymus ultrastructure using electron microscopy.
- Observation of infected thymus tissues at various time points post-infection (p.i.), from 5 to 9 days.
Main Results:
- MTV infection affected lymphocytes, epithelial cells, and macrophages starting 5 days p.i.
- Viral particles and filamentous structures were observed within the nucleus and cytoplasm of infected cells.
- Severe stages (6-7 days p.i.) showed cellular necrosis, cytoplasmic granulation, loss of organelle definition, nuclear degradation, and cell aggregation. Viral particles were undetectable by 9 days p.i.
Conclusions:
- Macrophages are susceptible to mouse thymus virus infection.
- MTV infection leads to significant ultrastructural damage and necrosis in various thymus cell types.
